Wit etui in de vorm van een envelop c. 1836 - 1898

This is a small, white etui in the shape of an envelope, crafted by Susanna Maria van Pabst Rutgers-Linse, a Dutch woman born in 1826. During the 19th century, women's artistic expression often found an outlet in domestic crafts. This piece offers a glimpse into the everyday life and social roles of women in the Netherlands at that time. Handwork such as this was not only a creative pursuit, but also a marker of status, and of feminine identity. It signified a woman’s ability to manage a household and provide for her family. The delicate stitching and thoughtful design of the etui reflect a sense of care and attention to detail, qualities then associated with ideal womanhood. Consider the limitations and expectations placed on women artists of this period. An etui like this becomes more than just a functional object; it is a testament to the artist's creativity, resilience, and quiet assertion of self. It is an intimate expression, made within the confines of her world.