Het naaistertje 1890 - 1930

This drypoint print, Het naaistertje, by Philip Zilcken, quietly hums with the subtle tones of grey and the intimate act of sewing. I can almost see Zilcken, hunkered over the plate, pushing the needle through with thoughtful pressure, line by line. I imagine him thinking about the woman, about the room, about the light. See how he uses the density of the marks to build form and shadow, creating a subdued scene with the woman, head bowed, at work. The window light is almost a painting within a painting, like a Dutch master. The dress is a white block that is echoed by the curtain in the window behind. Notice, in contrast, how the woman's face is cast in shadow. You can see her hands and the white cloth are the only visible details. It’s a timeless scene, isn’t it? A conversation, really, between Zilcken, this woman, and all the other artists who have tried to capture a moment, a feeling, a life. I feel connected to them. It is so beautifully done.