Staande vrouw met kind 1777 - 1779

"Staande vrouw met kind" (Standing woman with child), an etching by Pieter de Mare, is a poignant depiction of a woman and her child, likely from the 18th-century Netherlands. The etching, which is part of the Rijksmuseum collection, captures the intimacy between the two figures, showcasing the woman's gentle touch on the child's shoulder. The composition emphasizes the woman's simple attire and the basket she carries, suggesting a life of work and toil. De Mare, known for his detailed renditions of everyday life, masterfully uses light and shadow to evoke a sense of depth and realism. The artwork offers a glimpse into the lives of common people during a period of significant social change.