The Dressmaker 1858 - 1868

Henri Jean Augustin de Braekeleer's etching, "The Dressmaker", from 1858-1868, depicts a solitary figure hunched over their work in a dimly lit room. The composition focuses on the figure's silhouette, emphasizing the artist's interest in capturing the essence of everyday life. The windows, with views of the outside world, create a strong contrast with the interior, highlighting the isolation of the individual. The etching's muted tones and detailed textures evoke a sense of realism, characteristic of Braekeleer's style, which gained popularity in the 19th century for its portrayal of the lives of working-class people. The work is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY.