Hardrijderij van mannen en vrouwen bij paren, te Leeuwarden. Afbeelding uit Eigen Haard 1880

This print, "Hardrijderij van mannen en vrouwen bij paren, te Leeuwarden," was made in 1880 by George Hendrik Breitner and published in Eigen Haard. It depicts a speed skating competition in Leeuwarden, Netherlands. In the 19th century, the Netherlands saw a rise in national consciousness, and events like these skating competitions became symbolic of Dutch identity and pride. Breitner captures the energy of the crowd and the skaters in a festive scene. What strikes me most is the representation of both men and women participating together, challenging the strict gender roles of the time. We can consider the cultural norms of the late 19th century, where women's participation in public life and sports was often limited. The image then offers an alternative narrative. It gives us insight into the shifting dynamics of gender and society. This print isn't just a record of a sporting event; it's a snapshot of a society on the cusp of change, reflecting evolving ideas about who gets to participate in the public sphere.