Man met kind 1777 - 1779

"Man met kind" was created by Pieter de Mare in the late 18th century. De Mare lived during a time when the Dutch Republic was in decline, facing economic struggles and political tensions. This etching offers a glimpse into the everyday life and social dynamics of the period. Here, a man is depicted smoking a pipe, casually holding a child by the hand. The child reaches out, perhaps wanting to explore or connect, while the man seems preoccupied. The artwork subtly hints at the social roles and expectations of men and women and the dynamics between adults and children. The man’s focus on his pipe and the child's yearning gesture evoke questions about attention, care, and the negotiation of desires within these relationships. It challenges us to reflect on the emotional landscape of families and the ways individuals navigate their roles within them.