Jongen geeft een appel aan een jongere jongen 1645 - 1650

Gesina ter Borch made this watercolor drawing, "Boy Giving an Apple to a Younger Boy," in the Netherlands sometime in the 17th century. Ter Borch’s works often depicted scenes of daily life, offering us glimpses into the cultural values and social structures of the Dutch Golden Age. This intimate exchange between the two boys speaks volumes about the era's emphasis on charity and social harmony. The act of giving, particularly from an older child to a younger one, reinforces prevailing notions of hierarchy and responsibility within the family and community. Ter Borch, who never married, was able to pursue her artistic career because of the support of her family. To fully appreciate Ter Borch's art, we need to look into Dutch society, its economic prosperity, and the role of women within it. Archival records, personal letters, and historical accounts help to flesh out our understanding. It's through such historical context that the drawing truly comes to life, revealing the subtle yet significant commentary on the social fabric of its time.