Sitting farmer 

Editor: This is "Sitting Farmer," a pencil drawing by Klaes Molenaer from the 17th century, here at the Städel Museum. There’s something so relaxed and jovial about this figure, almost caught mid-song. What strikes you most when you look at this? Curator: Oh, that's a delightful observation. I love how you picked up on that sense of relaxed joy! You know, I see a character deeply connected to the land, wouldn’t you agree? He is sitting there at the end of the day with this posture so relaxed. Molenaer captures this wonderfully. Notice the subtle details in the clothing, the weight of the pose… even the simple act of him holding his hat aloft feels somehow significant. The whole thing feels incredibly natural. What I wonder is: What is in that hat? Editor: Perhaps it's just empty, or holding some tool... Curator: Or perhaps the hope for rain for his fields, perhaps the fruit of labor of the day... We don’t really know! That little mystery is part of what draws me in. Drawings like these are more than just representations, wouldn't you say? They are windows into the human condition. He reminds me of my uncle who loves to sing, just as loud as he can, with arms extended. He just loves to make everyone smile. Editor: Definitely. It’s interesting how a simple sketch can evoke such strong emotions and connections. Thank you for that anecdote about your uncle! Curator: And thank you for sharing that thought! Every drawing has an untold story. That’s something worth keeping in mind, I reckon.