Bukkende vrouw Possibly 1870 - 1875

Cornelis Springer created this pencil sketch, Bukkende Vrouw, in the Netherlands. The bent posture of the figure speaks to the social and economic realities of 19th-century Dutch society. Cornelis Springer was known for his cityscapes, often depicting the urban environment with architectural precision. Here, however, we have a glimpse into the life of a common person, perhaps someone of lower social standing performing a menial task or showing deference. The sketch captures a moment of daily life, reflecting the social hierarchy of the time. The Rijksmuseum, where this sketch is housed, plays a crucial role in preserving and presenting Dutch history and culture. By including this sketch in its collection, the museum acknowledges the importance of representing all facets of society, not just the grand and monumental. To fully understand this work, we can delve into archives of 19th-century Dutch social history and studies of class and gender. The meaning of art is always enriched by understanding its institutional and cultural context.