Vrouw staande in het water 1800 - 1822

This is a delicate etching by J. van Strieland, depicting a woman standing in water, a basket in her arms. The method of etching itself is worth considering. An etching is made with acid, eating into the surface of a metal plate. The artist protects certain areas with a waxy ground, allowing the acid to bite into the exposed areas, creating lines and textures. This requires careful labor, precision, and control of the materials. The resulting print, with its fine lines and subtle shading, is evidence of the etcher's skill and craft. Notice how the process affects the final image. The lines are not bold or assertive, but rather delicate and nuanced. This softness gives the image a dreamlike quality, which in turn lends a certain dignity to the peasant subject. While the etching is small, the artist's labor and the qualities of the medium provide an intimate glimpse into a specific time and place. This artwork encourages us to consider the value of craft and the dignity of labor.