Three women labourers 1662

"Three Women Labourers" is a graphite drawing by Esaias Boursse, a Dutch artist known for his detailed depictions of people and everyday life. Created in 1662, the artwork shows three women, likely from the Indonesian archipelago, carrying baskets of goods. Boursse's meticulous portrayal captures their diverse appearance and the weight of their labor, offering a glimpse into the lives of working women during this period. The drawing's small scale, measuring just 148 mm by 196 mm, adds to its intimacy, inviting viewers to focus on the individual stories of each woman. This artwork provides valuable insight into the social and economic realities of the 17th century and is a fine example of Boursse's skill in capturing human detail.