Boerderijen in Drouwen 1876 - 1910

Alphonse Stengelin created this etching titled 'Boerderijen in Drouwen', which translates to 'Farms in Drouwen'. Stengelin was a 19th-century artist whose work often celebrated the beauty of the natural world, and rural life. This image captures a serene countryside scene, but it also subtly reflects the social and economic realities of its time. The farms, rendered with a delicate touch, speak to a way of life deeply connected to the land. Yet, this connection was not without its challenges, as rural communities often faced economic hardships and social inequalities. The image avoids idealizing rural existence, instead offering a grounded perspective on daily life. As we consider Stengelin’s image, we might reflect on how art can both honor and critically engage with the realities of its subjects. The print invites us to contemplate our relationship with the environment and those who inhabit it.