Hondenscheerder knipt een hond 1818 - 1863

Emanuel Noterman's etching depicts a dog groomer trimming a dog on a table. It was created sometime in the 19th century. The scene offers a glimpse into the social realities of the time, reflecting a growing awareness of pets and their care. The act of grooming itself signifies a shift in attitudes towards animals. What used to be working animals become companions that require a certain degree of care and pampering. It’s also interesting to consider who the audience for this type of imagery was. Was it intended for an emerging middle class, who sought to emulate the lifestyles of the wealthy, or was it a commentary on the changing dynamics of human-animal relationships? These are just some of the questions that art historians consider when trying to contextualize works like these. By researching social trends, economic data, and relevant texts from the period, we can continue to understand the full story of this simple etching.