Man met een schop en een kroes 1834 - 1911

Jozef Israëls created this pencil drawing, titled "Man met een schop en een kroes," which translates to "Man with a shovel and a mug," at an unknown date. Israëls was known for his depictions of working-class life, often portraying the struggles and resilience of those on the margins of society. This drawing offers an intimate glimpse into the life of a laborer, a figure who carries the weight of his work both physically and metaphorically. The shovel and mug he carries suggest a life of toil and simple sustenance. Israëls was part of the Hague School, which was a group of Dutch realist artists who emphasized the everyday lives of ordinary people. This drawing echoes their focus, rendering the laborer with dignity and humanity. The man's weary expression, combined with the tools of his trade, speaks to the emotional and physical demands placed on the working class. The drawing emphasizes themes of identity, labor, and the human condition. It serves as a poignant reminder of the often-overlooked lives that form the backbone of society.