Brooding woman 1915

Gustav Schraegle created this emotive line drawing, "Brooding Woman," sometime around the turn of the 20th century. Schraegle's work invites us to consider the inner lives of women in a period marked by significant social and cultural shifts. The woman depicted is caught in a moment of introspection, her posture and expression suggesting a deep sense of unease or contemplation. During Schraegle's time, women's roles were undergoing re-evaluation, and many were challenging traditional expectations. This piece captures a sense of the psychological burden and emotional complexity that accompanied these changes. The loose, expressive lines convey a sense of immediacy and vulnerability, inviting viewers to connect with the woman's emotional state. Schraegle offers a counter-narrative to conventional representations of women, emphasizing interiority over outward appearance. The artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional labor often invisible in historical accounts.