Touwtjespringende jongen, van achteren Possibly 1653

Harmen ter Borch created this pen and brown ink drawing of a boy jumping rope in the Dutch Republic during the Golden Age. Ter Borch was known for his genre scenes and portraits of the wealthy class, but here he captures a fleeting moment of childhood. The image offers a glimpse into the life of an ordinary child, perhaps from a more humble background than Ter Borch's typical subjects. Notice the details in the boy’s clothing; his breeches, the visible seams, and his cap. Although simple, the drawing evokes a sense of energy and freedom. Skipping rope is a universal game, transcending time and culture, yet here it is firmly rooted in a specific historical and cultural context. In the 17th century, the Dutch Republic was experiencing a period of economic prosperity and cultural flourishing, but this prosperity was not shared equally by all. This drawing invites us to consider the lives of those whose stories often go untold, reminding us that even in the midst of grand historical narratives, individual experiences matter.