Vrouw met gekruiste armen, in profiel c. 1895 - 1898

This is a sketch of a woman with crossed arms, drawn by George Hendrik Breitner. The crossed arms can be interpreted as a symbol of defensiveness, closure, or introspection, gestures we've seen in countless artworks. Consider depictions of Mary Magdalene, often shown with arms crossed in repentance or grief. This motif transcends religious art, reappearing in secular contexts. The pose reflects a universal human experience: the need to protect oneself, both physically and emotionally. Throughout history, this gesture evolves, sometimes signifying mourning, at others resistance. It evokes powerful emotional responses, engaging viewers with deep, subconscious feelings of empathy or unease. Notice how the subject's posture conveys a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting us to reflect on our own experiences of vulnerability. This cyclical progression of the crossed arm gesture is a testament to its enduring power as a symbol of human emotion.