Slapende man met hengel 1832 - 1897

Alexander Ver Huell made this drawing of a sleeping man with a fishing rod sometime in the 19th century. The image presents a humorous scene of leisure gone wrong, and it’s a window into the social values and pastimes of the Netherlands at that time. The drawing depicts a man, presumably a fisherman, who has fallen asleep under a tree with his fishing rod still in hand. A young boy observes the scene, his expression suggesting a mix of amusement and perhaps a bit of concern. This image creates meaning through its depiction of everyday life and humor, but also hints at social commentary. Was the rise of industrialization changing the way people spent their time? Was leisure becoming more accessible or was it still the preserve of a select few? Historians might look into Dutch social customs, leisure activities, and even the economic conditions of the time to better understand the artwork. It reminds us that art is deeply embedded in its social context, reflecting the norms, values, and even the unspoken ironies of its time.