Rouwende heer met een rouwstoet achter hem c. 1654

This watercolor and ink drawing, "Mourning Gentleman with a Funeral Procession Behind Him," was created by Gesina ter Borch in the 17th century, a period marked by strict social hierarchies and gendered expectations. Ter Borch, as a woman artist, navigated a complex world, using her art to reflect on her personal experiences and cultural surroundings. Here, the central figure, a gentleman in mourning, stands in stark contrast to the long procession of black-clad figures behind him. The uniformity of the procession highlights the rigid social structures of the time, where appearances and adherence to customs were paramount. It is interesting to read the poetry scrawled above the image. The script and watercolor add an emotional layer, hinting at the personal grief and reflection that Ter Borch may have been experiencing. This piece invites us to consider the artist's own identity and experiences, and to reflect on how societal expectations and personal emotions intersect.