Pennensnijder 1730 - 1746

This etching, "Pennensnijder" (pen cutter), created by J. van Taerlingh between 1730 and 1746, depicts a man meticulously sharpening a quill pen by candlelight. The composition captures the quiet intensity of the craftsman's task, emphasized by the play of light and shadow across his face and the surrounding objects, including a pile of coins and a piece of paper. This small, intimate portrayal offers a glimpse into the daily life of a skilled artisan in the 18th century. The detailed rendering of the tools and the craftsman's focused expression speak to the value placed on craftsmanship during this period.