Portret van een onbekende oude man before 1964

H.E. Wissmann created this etching, titled "Portret van een onbekende oude man," which translates to "Portrait of an unknown old man." The print captures the essence of aging and anonymity, inviting us to consider the stories of those often overlooked by history. Wissmann uses the etching technique to create a somber mood, with the subject emerging from a dark background. The man's worn features and humble attire suggest a life of labor and hardship, reflecting the realities of the working class in the late 19th or early 20th century. This portrait departs from the tradition of depicting nobility or the bourgeoisie, which were the typical subjects, turning our attention to the common man. The lack of specific identity amplifies the portrait’s impact, prompting us to reflect on the value and dignity inherent in every human life, regardless of status. The image evokes both a sense of empathy and a moment of connection with a life unknown.