Heiwerker c. 1884 - 1887

Willem Witsen created this drawing, ‘Heiwerker’, using graphite pencil. Witsen came from a wealthy family and was part of a group called the Amsterdam Impressionists, who focused on depicting daily life, often of the working class. Here, we see a construction worker with his pile driver, a poignant symbol of labor and the working class experience. It's rendered with a remarkable level of detail. You can almost feel the weight and strain of the job, the isolation and the relentless physical demands. The dark tones evoke a somber mood, reflecting the harsh realities faced by these workers. While Witsen had an eye for these realities, he came from a different world. His choice to depict the worker provides an intimate glimpse into a life of hardship and resilience. This image serves as a reminder of the disparities that exist within society, and the dignity of labor.