De tongenslijpers, 1705 1592 - 1707

"De tongenslijpers" is an etching by Dutch artist Carel Allard, dated 1705. The image depicts a workshop of tongue sharpeners, a trade common in the Netherlands of the 17th and 18th centuries. Allard’s etching provides a vivid glimpse into the daily life of these artisans, with intricate details showing the tools and processes involved in the trade. This artwork is a valuable historical record of a now-forgotten profession, captured in a detailed and expressive style characteristic of Dutch Golden Age art. The etching is currently held at the Rijksmuseum, and it is a testament to Allard's skill and observation as an artist, highlighting the importance of everyday labor in Dutch society.