Houthakker lezend op een boomstronk in het bos 1839 - 1896

This black and white etching by Belgian artist Florent Nicolas Crabeels, titled "Houthakker lezend op een boomstronk in het bos," shows a lumberjack reading a newspaper in a forest setting. Created between 1839 and 1896, the piece depicts the everyday life of working-class individuals and showcases Crabeels' mastery of realism and detail. The image's simple yet evocative composition highlights the subject's isolation and the tranquility of the forest environment. The newspaper, "De Zwade," is a clear indication of the time period and provides a social commentary on the increasing literacy and influence of the press during the 19th century.