Barend Cornelis Woman standing Barend Cornelis Koekkoek (1803-1862)

Here we observe a graphite drawing depicting a young woman in a full-length pose. She stands centrally within the composition, her body turned slightly towards the viewer. The artist has rendered her with a directness that emphasizes both her physical presence and an underlying sense of quiet introspection.
The subject is dressed in simple, rural attire: a modest blouse, a long skirt gathered at the waist, and what appears to be a traditional head covering. Her footwear suggests practicality rather than adornment – rudimentary sandals are visible on her feet. She holds a walking stick firmly in her right hand, which provides both support and contributes to an impression of purposeful movement or travel. The left hand is clasped around the fabric of her skirt, further reinforcing this sense of groundedness and perhaps restraint.
The artist’s use of shading creates volume and form, particularly noticeable in the folds of her clothing and the contours of her face. Her gaze is directed forward, but not directly at the viewer; it suggests a preoccupation with something beyond the immediate frame. The facial expression is difficult to decipher definitively – theres a hint of melancholy or perhaps quiet determination present.
The background is sparsely detailed, consisting primarily of sketched foliage and what appears to be a low horizon line. This minimal setting directs attention entirely towards the figure, isolating her within the composition. The sketchy nature of the background also lends an immediacy to the drawing, as if it were executed rapidly from observation.
Subtly, the work conveys themes of rural life, modesty, and perhaps resilience. The walking stick could symbolize a journey, either literal or metaphorical; the simple clothing speaks to a life lived close to the land. There’s a certain dignity in her posture and gaze that transcends mere portraiture, hinting at an inner strength and self-sufficiency. The drawing avoids sentimentality, presenting instead a straightforward depiction of a woman engaged with her environment and seemingly contemplating her place within it.