Man zittend naast een schrijvende vrouw c. 1840 - 1860

Charles Rochussen created this sketch, "Man Sitting Next to a Writing Woman," using graphite. During Rochussen’s time, the 19th century was a period of distinct social roles, particularly in the domestic sphere. While the man sits, presumably reading or observing, the woman is actively writing. This was a time when literacy and education for women, though increasing, were often viewed through the lens of domesticity and morality. Rochussen, through his genre paintings and illustrations, often captured scenes of daily life. The sketch gives us a glimpse into the evolving roles within middle-class society. There's a quiet intimacy and tension in the composition, a narrative suggested but not fully revealed. The woman's act of writing could be seen as a form of empowerment, a step beyond traditional expectations, while the man's presence raises questions about observation, participation, and the dynamics of gender roles. Rochussen’s delicate lines invite us to reflect on the intricacies of personal identity and social change during a transformative era.