Portretten van drie scheepslieden c. 1848 - 1854

Christian Heinrich Gottlieb Steuerwald created this pencil drawing of three sailors in the 19th century. These are not idealized portraits in the manner of the Academy, but are everyday working men, sketched in a naturalistic style, and given no special treatment. This realism in art reflects broader social and cultural shifts in 19th century Europe. As industrialization changed societies, artists began to focus on representing the lives of ordinary people, their labor, and their struggles. The rise of the middle class and the growth of democratic ideals also influenced art, challenging traditional hierarchies and celebrating the common person. How do these values influence the way that Steuerwald has approached the subjects in his sketch? To understand this artwork fully, we can consult historical records, literature, and social commentary of the time. By situating the work within its historical context, we gain insights into its meaning and significance, enriching our appreciation of art as a reflection of its time.