Slapende jongeman 1874 - 1925

Jan Veth created this watercolor drawing, Slapende jongeman, which translates to Sleeping Young Man. Veth's portraits were often more than simple depictions of his subjects; they engaged with the sitter's inner life and character. This work, however, offers us an unusual glimpse into vulnerability and rest. Considering the time and place, the late 19th-century Netherlands, we can see the influence of social realism, a movement that sought to portray the lives of ordinary people and reflect the socio-economic conditions of the time. The drawing invites us to reflect on themes of labor and rest, a poignant commentary on the working class who were often denied adequate rest. We might question how class and gender intersect in such a portrayal. Who is this young man, and what circumstances have led to his profound slumber? Ultimately, the beauty and simplicity of this drawing create a deeply personal and affecting experience, connecting us to a shared humanity that transcends time.