Naarstigheid 1654

"Naarstigheid" (Diligence) is an etching from 1654 by an anonymous artist. The print depicts a woman seated in a classical setting, gazing intently at a book. This artwork, now located in the Rijksmuseum, represents the theme of diligence, an important concept in 17th-century Dutch society. This etching likely served as a moral illustration to emphasize the value of hard work and intellectual pursuit. The delicate lines of the etching create a sense of depth and detail, drawing the viewer into the contemplative world of the sitter.