Melkverkoper 1815 - 1889

Jan Baptist Tetar van Elven created this print titled 'Melkverkoper', or Milkman, during the 19th century. Van Elven lived in a time of significant social stratification. The sentimental depiction of rural life, as seen here, speaks to the cultural values of the Biedermeier period. The print illustrates a milkman standing outside a modest dwelling, seemingly in conversation with two women inside. The scene suggests a quiet moment of exchange, representative of daily life. The composition presents a particular view of gender roles. The women are passively positioned in the domestic sphere, while the milkman is an active participant in the world outside. The milkman’s knowing gaze reflects a certain level of social and economic exchange between the man and women depicted in the image. The milkman’s posture and placement within the composition suggests he is in control of the exchange. This artwork invites us to reflect on the dynamics of labor, gender, and class.