Conversation in the Street 1610 - 1685

Adriaen van Ostade made this print, "Conversation in the Street," sometime in the mid-17th century. The Dutch Golden Age was a time of great social change, and prints like this one offer a glimpse into daily life. Ostade's image creates meaning through visual codes tied to class and gender. Made in the Netherlands, the work reflects the culture and social structures of its time. Consider how the figures are dressed; their clothing signifies social standing. The woman carries a basket, suggesting a domestic role, while the man's attire may indicate a trade or profession. The print provides insight into the roles assigned to men and women. Was Ostade's depiction a self-conscious commentary on Dutch society? Understanding the social context enhances our appreciation of art. Historians consult a range of resources to fully understand works like this, from period documents to studies of Dutch society. By exploring its context, we recognize art as something contingent on social and institutional forces.