Vrouw met één hand in de zij en in de andere hand een paraplu 1872

This etching, “Woman with one hand on her hip and an umbrella in the other hand,” was created by Willem Geets during a time of significant shifts in European society and art. Geets was a Belgian artist working in the late 19th century, a period marked by industrialization, urbanization, and evolving social norms. The etching invites us to consider the position of women in this rapidly changing world. The woman’s stern expression and assertive stance challenge traditional, passive representations of women. Instead, she presents herself as a figure of resilience. Her clothing suggests a working-class background, indicating a life of labor and practical concerns. The inclusion of the umbrella could symbolize both protection and independence, suggesting she's prepared to face the elements and navigate the world on her own terms. The artist captures a sense of defiance but also vulnerability. The woman's gaze seems to question the viewer, inviting a dialogue about female agency and lived experience.