Gezicht op een brug over een gracht after 1856

This small etching of a canal scene is by Joseph Hartogensis, who lived in the Netherlands during the 19th century. Hartogensis was born into a Jewish family and was part of a community that faced discrimination and marginalization in Dutch society. In this quiet scene, the artist portrays a canal with a bridge, some buildings, and a few people. The figures are small, yet their presence brings the scene to life, giving us a glimpse into the daily life of 19th-century Holland. Hartogensis’s choice to depict such an ordinary scene suggests an interest in capturing the everyday experiences of the community around him. While seemingly simple, this etching offers a window into the past, inviting us to consider the lives and experiences of those who lived in this time and place. The work embodies a sensitivity to the nuances of everyday life, offering a reflection on the shared human experience.