Figuren aan de waterkant 1814 - 1875

David van der Kellen created this print, "Figuren aan de waterkant," depicting figures by the water, using etching techniques sometime in the 19th century. At first glance, it is a simple scene: men relaxing, a child playing, and a dog lounging. Yet, what does it mean to relax by the water in the 19th century? The water represents commerce, travel, and labor, but here it serves as a backdrop for leisure, suggesting a certain class identity. The artist's choice to include a child being led by the hand may also hint at the expectations of guidance and the transfer of knowledge between generations. Moreover, the detailed rendering of each figure, from their clothing to their posture, invites us to consider their individual stories and social positions. This image captures a moment of everyday life, subtly layered with the socio-economic dynamics of its time. It prompts us to reflect on how labor and leisure are depicted and experienced differently across social strata.