Naaister 1860 - 1921

Adolf le Comte created this watercolor painting, titled "Naaister," likely in the Netherlands during the late 19th century. The image of a seamstress at work provides a glimpse into the lives of working-class women of that era. Consider the social and economic structures of the time. The rise of industrialization created new opportunities for women in the workforce, but it also led to exploitation and poor working conditions. The institutional history of art is relevant here too. Paintings like this offered social commentary, prompting viewers to reflect on the realities of labour and class divisions. Understanding the historical context of "Naaister" requires delving into archival sources such as census records, labour statistics, and social reform movements of the time. As art historians, we can reveal how art serves as a mirror reflecting, and at times challenging, the norms and power structures of its era.