Boerenman met mand op zijn rug 1756 - 1797

Hendrik Willem Schweickhardt created this etching, titled "Boerenman met mand op zijn rug," sometime in the late 18th century. This piece offers a glimpse into the lives of rural laborers during a period of significant social and economic change. Schweickhardt, positioned as an artist within a society marked by rigid class structures, captures the essence of the working class through his depiction of a farmer carrying a heavy load. The farmer’s hunched posture and simple attire speak to the physical demands and socio-economic realities of his labor. The work invites reflection on the dignity of labor and the human cost of agricultural production. How does this image reflect broader issues of class and identity in 18th-century rural life? The piece serves as a poignant reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of the working class and encourages a deeper understanding of their role in shaping society.