Twee wagens en een vrouwenhoofd c. 1869

This sketch of two carts and a woman’s head was made by Cornelis Springer in the 19th century. Springer, known for his cityscapes, offers us here a glimpse into the modes of transportation and perhaps even the social strata of his time. During the 1800's, the Industrial Revolution was transforming societies, yet horse-drawn carts remained essential for daily life, particularly for working-class individuals and rural communities. The inclusion of a woman’s head could be a nod to the roles women played in this era, often involved in trade, agriculture, or family businesses that relied on such carts. The woman’s gaze is intense, yet elusive, and raises questions about her identity and her relationship to the vehicles. As you consider this drawing, allow yourself to reflect on the lives and labor embedded in these simple, understated sketches.