The Bleaching Fields near Haarlem 1659 - 1665

"The Bleaching Fields near Haarlem" is a 17th-century drawing by Dutch artist Gerbrand van den Eeckhout. It depicts a scene of everyday life in the Dutch countryside, showcasing the laborious process of linen bleaching. The artwork captures the meticulous work of women using a large water-powered wheel to prepare the linen, with the background featuring a farmhouse, a dog, and a figure pushing a wheelbarrow. This detailed depiction of a specific trade provides a glimpse into the economic activity and daily routines of 17th-century Dutch society, highlighting the importance of linen production in the region.