Zeug met biggen 1865 - 1936

Nicolaas van der Waay created "Zeug met biggen," or "Sow with Piglets," as an etching. Van der Waay lived in a time of rapid change in the Netherlands, when traditional rural life was increasingly confronted by industrialization and urbanization. Here, the artist presents a scene that's both intimate and universal: a mother sow nurturing her young. The choice of subject matter – a common farm animal – reflects a broader artistic interest in depicting everyday life. Yet, within this seemingly simple scene, we can explore complex ideas about motherhood, care, and the natural world. The sow, a symbol of fertility and nourishment, embodies the labor of motherhood. This piece invites us to consider the emotional and physical demands placed on female bodies, both human and animal. By focusing on this tender moment between mother and offspring, Van der Waay encourages us to reflect on the value of care and the interconnectedness of life. It's a poignant reminder of the beauty and challenges inherent in the cycle of life.