Vrouw bezig met het inkleuren van prenten c. 1890

Henri-Gabriel Ibels made this pencil drawing, ‘Woman coloring prints,’ at an unknown date. The image provides a glimpse into the world of printmaking, a burgeoning industry at the time. In the late 19th century, printmaking became increasingly popular, both as an art form and as a means of mass communication. This was due in part to technological advancements that made the process more efficient and affordable. As a result, there was a growing demand for skilled printmakers, and many women found employment in this field, often performing tasks such as coloring prints. Ibels, associated with the Nabis, a group of Post-Impressionist avant-garde artists, challenges the traditional academic art. This drawing may have been made in France. The Rijksmuseum holds a collection of prints, drawings, and photographs that can provide valuable insights into the social and cultural context of this image. By studying these resources, we can gain a deeper understanding of the role of women in the printmaking industry and the broader social forces that shaped their lives.