Head of a Woman 1883

Vincent van Gogh created this drawing, Head of a Woman, in the late 19th century, a period marked by significant social and economic change. During this time, there was increasing recognition of the working class, yet their struggles often remained unseen. Van Gogh was deeply moved by the lives of ordinary people, particularly those in the working class, and dedicated himself to depicting their hardships with empathy and respect. In this drawing, the woman's aged face and tired eyes poignantly reflect the difficulties and endurance of a life marked by labor. Van Gogh chose not to idealize her, but to capture her true likeness. The artist once said, "I want to paint men and women with that something of the eternal which the halo used to symbolize." He aimed to find a spiritual quality in everyday individuals, challenging the conventional art of his time, which often celebrated only the wealthy and powerful. The artwork invites us to consider the value and dignity of every person, regardless of their social status or economic condition.