Boerenman 1771

This is Johann Andreas Benjamin Nothnagel's etching titled "Boerenman," created in 1771. During the 18th century, representing individuals from lower social classes was often intertwined with political and social commentary. Nothnagel, working within this context, presents us with a man whose gaze holds a story of resilience. It’s interesting to consider how class distinctions were portrayed through art, and what role these images played in shaping societal perceptions. The man's weary eyes and unkempt appearance speak to a life of labor, but also perhaps to a certain dignity. There is something in the tilt of his head, his direct gaze that suggests we see him as an individual, rather than a type. Ultimately, Nothnagel's etching is a nuanced exploration of identity, inviting us to reflect on the complex interplay between representation, social class, and individual experience during this period.