Man met kruiwagen c. 1822 - 1827

This is a silver sculpture, "Man met kruiwagen," by Gijsbert Barbiers. Its metallic sheen gives it a cool, almost futuristic feel, despite its depiction of a traditional scene. The composition is simple: a man standing beside a wheelbarrow, both rendered in meticulous detail. The artist is playing with notions of labor and value. Typically, silver is reserved for objects of luxury, yet here, it's used to represent everyday work. This contrast destabilizes conventional meanings, prompting us to consider the dignity of labor. The wheelbarrow, often associated with weight and burden, is now rendered in precious metal, elevating its status. Note the man's gesture, seemingly pointing or directing, which complicates the scene further, suggesting power dynamics and social structures. The structure invites ongoing interpretation.