Familie aan de maaltijd 1866 - 1928

Willem Steelink created this print, "Familie aan de maaltijd", using etching. The work's power resides in its stark, dark, almost claustrophobic atmosphere, achieved through Steelink's masterful use of line and shadow. The central focus is a family gathered around a table. The figures are closely arranged, creating a sense of intimacy, but the limited light and deep shadows also suggest a feeling of confinement and the harsh realities of daily life. Steelink's composition plays with the contrast between light and dark, obscuring much of the background and drawing our attention to the faces and hands of the family members. The rough textures and visible lines of the etching technique add to the raw, unpolished feel of the scene. The artwork challenges the viewer to consider the complexities and struggles of the working class, creating a space for reflection on social conditions. It's a reminder that art often functions as a mirror, reflecting society’s truths.