Dame 1923 - 1925

This bronze sculpture titled ‘Dame’, was created by Saar de Swart. In this intimate family scene, De Swart challenges conventional depictions of women in art. Rather than idealizing or objectifying the female form, she presents a realistic and relatable image of motherhood. De Swart was Dutch and a contemporary to the rise of feminism in Europe in the late 19th and early 20th century. During this period women fought for suffrage, for equal access to education, and for more prominent roles in the arts. De Swart's sculpture reflects these progressive ideals by portraying a woman in a position of strength and authority, surrounded by children. To fully appreciate the nuances of this artwork, it is essential to consider the socio-political context in which it was created. Examining historical documents and feminist writings of the time can provide valuable insights into the artist's intentions and the broader cultural significance of her work.