Ex libris van Johan Schwencke 1926

This small print, "Ex libris van Johan Schwencke," of unknown date, comes to us from an anonymous hand. It’s an intimate portrait, likely created as a personal bookplate. The image depicts a woman rendered with stark realism, her posture and attire suggesting a life of labor. There is no attempt to soften her features or idealize her form. Her sturdy frame and hands clasped tightly around what appears to be a muff speak to the realities of daily life. Consider the context: without a known artist, the gaze of the creator and their intentions are veiled, leaving room for interpretation centered on the subject. How does she see herself, how is she seen by others, and how do these visions intersect? The work offers a narrative about the lives of ordinary people, particularly women, who often remain unnamed in history. The print invites us to reflect on the value and dignity inherent in every individual, regardless of social standing.