Oude vrouw biedt jongen een ei aan 1722 - 1784

Simon Fokke produced this engraving, "Old Woman Offering a Boy an Egg," in the Netherlands sometime in the 18th century. This seemingly simple scene offers insight into the social and cultural values of the time. Note the stark contrast between the old woman and the young boy. She is seated, her posture suggesting age and weariness, while he stands, full of youthful energy. The eggs on the table serve as a symbolic offering, perhaps representing nourishment, life, or even a form of economic exchange. The setting, with its humble dwelling and watchful figure in the window, speaks to the everyday life of the Dutch working class. To fully understand this image, we can turn to period literature, economic records, and social histories. Fokke’s image, in its quiet way, reflects the social dynamics of his era. It subtly invites us to consider the roles of age, youth, and social class in 18th-century Dutch society.