Zittende vrouw met rijzweep 1832 - 1902

Karel Frederik Bombled created this etching, titled "Seated Woman with Riding Crop", in the Netherlands during the 19th century. It invites us to consider the social roles of women during this era. The woman's clothing and the riding crop suggest a certain social standing. In 19th-century Dutch society, riding was associated with the upper classes. The riding crop implies the woman has authority, if only in the context of equestrian activities. But beyond this immediate symbolism, we might ask how the image reflects broader cultural attitudes toward women and their roles. Historical sources from the period, such as etiquette manuals and social commentaries, can provide insights into the expectations and constraints placed on women of different social classes. Through careful analysis and contextual research, we can gain a richer understanding of this artwork as a cultural artifact, reflecting the complexities of gender, class, and power in 19th-century Dutch society.