Gemaskerde vrouw 1899

This is Samuel Jessurun de Mesquita’s woodcut, "Masked Woman," printed at an unknown date. Born in Amsterdam to Portuguese-Jewish parents, de Mesquita's life and work were deeply affected by the rise of fascism and the Holocaust. The "Masked Woman" evokes questions of identity and concealment. The mask, a symbol of disguise, invites us to consider the tension between outward appearance and inner self. In a society marked by rigid social norms, masking could serve as a form of rebellion or a means of survival, especially for those whose identities were marginalized or persecuted. The stark contrast of black and white emphasizes this tension. The woman’s gaze is averted, perhaps reflecting a sense of unease or defiance. De Mesquita's tragic death in Auschwitz adds a layer of historical weight to this image. As viewers, we're left to contemplate how identity and appearance can be both a shield and a vulnerability in a world shaped by prejudice and violence.