Staande vrouw ten voeten uit, leunend op een kruik 1796 - 1870

Bruno van Straaten made this pencil drawing of a standing woman leaning on a jug sometime between 1786 and 1870. Van Straaten lived during a time of significant political and social change, influenced by the Enlightenment ideals of reason, liberty, and equality. This drawing invites us to consider the representation of women in art during this transformative period. Her clothing and posture suggest a working-class background, hinting at the daily lives of ordinary women. The jug she leans on signifies her role in domestic labor. Her gaze holds a quiet strength. It’s difficult to ascertain the context, but her expression gives the impression that she is carrying an inner life that is unseen. Standing in contrapposto, she possesses an individual identity that deviates from traditional representations of women in art, who were often portrayed as allegorical figures. This drawing reflects the societal shift towards valuing the individual and everyday life. It reminds us of the importance of recognizing the diverse experiences and contributions of women throughout history.