De spinster 1866 - 1890

"De spinster" (The Spinner), a black and white etching created between 1866 and 1890 by Willem (II) Steelink, portrays a woman spinning wool on a spinning wheel in a dimly lit room. The detailed depiction of the spinning wheel, the woman’s clothing, and the room’s interior showcases Steelink's mastery of etching. The somber mood of the work is enhanced by the use of shadows and contrasts, highlighting the solitude of the spinning woman. The artwork is a poignant representation of rural life in the 19th century, capturing the quiet and contemplative nature of domestic work.