Staande vrouw in landsdracht, op de rug gezien 1832 - 1885

Rodolphe Bresdin created this ink drawing of a woman in traditional dress sometime during his career, which spanned much of the 19th century. Bresdin, a complex figure, lived as an outsider and often depicted scenes of social alienation in his work. This drawing offers us a glimpse into the intricate relationship between identity and representation. The woman's traditional garments speak to a specific cultural or regional identity, yet her averted gaze invites us to consider the complexities of female representation in art during that period. How does she feel about wearing the dress, is she proud, ashamed, or is it simply part of her day to day life? She stands as a figure of both cultural pride and perhaps, personal introspection. Through this lens, Bresdin prompts us to reflect on how clothing shapes and reflects societal expectations, while still allowing for individual narratives to emerge.