Smid 1874 - 1925

Jan Veth made this pencil drawing called ‘Smid,’ the Dutch word for blacksmith. In the late 19th century, the Netherlands was rapidly industrializing, and artists like Veth were reckoning with the changing nature of work and labor. The blacksmith, traditionally a figure of strength and skill, is shown here in a moment of repose. He leans against his anvil, hammer in hand, but his gaze is directed away from his work. Veth's choice of subject and his naturalistic style reflect a broader European interest in the lives of working-class people. Artists and writers wanted to portray them realistically and address social issues. Veth was closely involved in the Dutch art scene, contributing criticism to De Amsterdammer, a progressive weekly publication. Through sources like these, we can better understand how artists saw their role in reflecting and commenting on society.