Twee moeders met hun kinderen 1777 - 1779

Pieter de Mare created this print, “Two Mothers with their Children,” sometime before his death in 1796. De Mare worked during a tumultuous period, shaped by Enlightenment ideals and growing social inequalities, especially within the Dutch Republic. This image presents an intimate glimpse into the lives of women and children, most likely from the working class. The detailed etching captures the textures of their garments, and the close interaction between the mothers and children suggests a strong bond, a common and essential experience across different social strata. However, it’s impossible to ignore the visible signs of poverty, like the patched clothing of the woman on the right. The image raises questions about the roles and expectations placed on women, particularly mothers, during the late 18th century. Were they celebrated or were they ignored? What freedoms were afforded to them at that time, if any? The relationships between the children also spark questions about societal structures, family dynamics, and the daily realities of life for those on the margins. It gently reminds us of the ever-present complexities inherent in the human experience.