Vrouw met een kind op de arm c. 1701

Jacob Toorenvliet made this sketch, Vrouw met een kind op de arm, in the Netherlands, likely during the 17th or 18th century. The drawing depicts a woman with a child in her arms, while another child is standing beside her. The image raises questions about the social conditions that shape artistic production. How does Toorenvliet's sketch reflect the culture of his time? The way in which the family dynamic is portrayed in the sketch, offers insight into the social norms and expectations surrounding family roles. It's interesting to note that art institutions, such as academies, and the patronage system prevalent during Toorenvliet's time may have influenced the subject matter and style of his work. By researching Toorenvliet's life, the social and economic conditions of the Dutch Republic, and the institutional history of art during his time, we can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork's meaning and significance.