A woman making water after 1631

This anonymous etching from after 1631 depicts a woman squatting and urinating in a natural setting. The scene is likely a satirical commentary on the realities of life in 17th-century Europe, with the woman's exposed body emphasizing a basic human need. The simple lines and detailed shading of the etching evoke a sense of realism, making this intimate moment all the more compelling. This small yet powerful print, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of ordinary people in the past.