Vrouw met een hoed Possibly 1873 - 1879

Cornelis Springer made this drawing of a woman with a hat with graphite. The image presents an interesting view into the societal norms and everyday life in the Netherlands during the 19th century. Although the drawing might seem simple, it hints at various aspects of the time. For example, the woman's attire, including her hat, scarf, and dress, speaks to the fashion and social customs of the time. Aspects of Dutch society at the time, such as the clothing style, were heavily influenced by class and occupation. Considering Springer's broader body of work as an urban landscapist, we might wonder whether this study was made in preparation for a painting, or whether it documents a particular person or place. Understanding this drawing requires looking into sources such as fashion plates, social histories, and municipal archives. Considering its social and institutional context helps us see the drawing not just as a sketch, but as a historical artifact reflecting 19th-century Dutch life.