Lucas van Leyden, ca. 1530 1865 - 1870

Christiaan Lodewijk van Kesteren created this piece, "Lucas van Leyden, ca. 1530" around the mid-19th century, employing printmaking techniques. Here we see a person in bed reading a book in what appears to be the late morning. There's a stillness to the image, the light seems to be falling on the subject just so, drawing our eye to the book. In the 19th century, there was an increased interest in images of domesticity. As life changed rapidly due to industrialization, there was a longing for simpler times. However, we must be critical of these representations. Who is depicted? Whose stories are being told, and whose are being left out? While this scene may seem timeless, consider that the ability to relax and read in bed is often a privilege. This image reminds us to consider the stories behind closed doors. The quiet moments that shape our lives and the lives of others, reflecting on our personal histories and societal expectations.