Vrouw met hoofddoek 1920

Jo Bezaan made this woodcut print, 'Woman with Headscarf,' at some point in the first half of the twentieth century. Bezaan's work is often associated with the Bergen School, a Dutch movement known for its expressionist style and social engagement. This image, with its stark black and white contrasts and simplified forms, speaks to the broader European engagement with woodcut techniques, particularly within German Expressionism. The headscarf situates the work within a particular cultural context, raising questions about identity and representation. Is it an image of empowerment, or does it perpetuate certain stereotypes? Without a date, it's hard to say if Bezaan is responding to a particular moment in Dutch social history. Further research into Bezaan's life, her artistic influences, and the reception of her work would offer more insight. Considering her affiliations with certain artistic movements, and the wider social and political context, this artwork can offer a window into the complex dynamics of identity and representation in the Netherlands.