The Cobbler 1671

"The Cobbler" is an etching by Adriaen van Ostade, a Dutch Golden Age artist, created in 1671. The print depicts a cobbler working at his stall, while a customer sits opposite, perhaps awaiting a new pair of shoes. A dog rests on the stall roof. The scene is captured in detail, from the cobbler’s tools to the surrounding buildings, offering a glimpse into everyday life in 17th-century Holland. The use of light and shadow adds depth and realism to the image, making the cobbler and his surroundings come to life. The etching is a testament to van Ostade’s mastery of the medium and his keen eye for detail, characteristics that made him one of the most celebrated printmakers of his time. The work is currently housed at The Art Institute of Chicago.