Portret van een onbekende vrouw 1863

Felicien Rops etched this small portrait of an unknown woman. Rops lived in a time when there was great debate about women's roles in society. He often portrayed women in ways that challenged traditional views of femininity. In this sketch, the woman's identity is concealed by her attire and headdress, yet she exudes a quiet confidence. Rops's choice to depict her this way might reflect the changing status of women during his time. This was a time when women were beginning to demand greater autonomy and recognition in various aspects of life. The image leaves us wondering about her story and the complexities of her identity within the social framework of the 19th century. It prompts us to consider the limitations and expectations placed upon women, as well as their resilience.