Studie van een staande jongen 1657 - 1677

Wijbrant Oosterdijk created this drawing, Studie van een staande jongen, using black chalk, around the 17th century in the Netherlands. Oosterdijk lived during a time of significant social stratification, where class was not just about wealth but also deeply tied to social expectations. The artwork portrays a young man who appears to be on the cusp of adulthood, his clothing suggesting a degree of affluence. The cape draped over his shoulder and the fine fabric of his attire indicate a certain social standing. The gaze of the subject, directed slightly upwards, might imply contemplation or perhaps a quiet defiance. Oosterdijk captures a nuanced expression of youth, hinting at the complexities of identity and the societal pressures these young men faced. The drawing serves as a poignant reminder of how social identity was carefully constructed and performed in the Dutch Golden Age. It encourages us to consider the personal narratives embedded within historical portrayals.