Oude vrouw en profil 1770

Jean Jacques de Boissieu created this print, "Oude vrouw en profil" or "Old woman in profile" sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. During the Enlightenment, there was a growing interest in depicting everyday people, and Boissieu captured this woman with empathy and respect, diverging from the traditional representation of the elderly as symbols of wisdom. The fine lines of the print capture the textures of her skin and clothing, and the downward glance suggests a moment of introspection or weariness. This depiction exists within a context where women, particularly older women, often faced marginalization. Boissieu seems to offer us an alternative narrative, portraying the woman's dignity and quiet strength. Consider how Boissieu prompts viewers to see beyond stereotypes, inviting a personal and emotional connection with this individual.