Ouwe Alida / Kantwerken 1885

Jan Veth created this etching, titled 'Ouwe Alida / Kantwerken', depicting an elderly woman engaged in lacework. Veth, a Dutchman who lived from 1864 to 1925, was deeply embedded in the cultural and social fabric of the Netherlands, a country known for its rich artistic heritage and distinctive social structures. This image gives us a glimpse into the daily life of a working-class woman, possibly in a rural setting. The act of lacemaking itself is a cultural reference. It speaks to traditions of craftsmanship and domestic labor, particularly associated with women in this historical moment. What makes this image particularly interesting from a social historical perspective is how it quietly affirms the dignity and value of labor often overlooked. Veth's choice to depict this scene invites viewers to reflect on the social conditions that shape the lives of ordinary people. By consulting historical records, personal letters, and other documentary sources, we can further illuminate the meaning of this artwork and its relevance to broader cultural and historical narratives.