Titelblad van het Materi-Boeck van Geesken ter Borch 1646

This is the title page for the "Materi-Boeck," or "Fabric Book," made by Gesina ter Borch in Zwolle, around 1646. Ter Borch was a Dutch Golden Age artist, best known for her watercolors and calligraphy. In a time when women's creative work was often confined to the domestic sphere, Gesina distinguished herself through her artistic talent and intellectual pursuits. This "Fabric Book" is more than just a collection of textile samples; it’s a visual diary. It is interwoven with personal significance, commemorating her family and social circle. It's a material record of her life and relationships. The very act of creating such a book allowed Gesina to assert her presence and skill within a society that often marginalized women's contributions. The elegant, flowing script of the title page hints at the care and artistry that Gesina poured into this intimate project. The "Materi-Boeck" invites us to reflect on the everyday lives and creative practices of women in the 17th century, and how these practices could serve as a form of quiet resistance and self-expression.