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A labour of love
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A labour of love
Dutch boy plaits the hair of his girl friend while she is knitting socks. Artist: Ethel Parkinson Date: 1911
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Media ID 14264537
© Mary Evans Picture Library/Peter & Dawn Cope Collection
Ethel Friend Holland Knitting Labour Netherlands Parkinson Plaits Socks
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A Labour of Love: Ethel Parkinson's 1911 Portrait of a Dutch Couple in Traditional Costume Title: A Labour of Love Artist: Ethel Parkinson Date: 1911 In this charming and evocative portrait, British artist Ethel Parkinson captures the tender moment between a Dutch boy and his girlfriend as they engage in their respective crafts. The image, titled "A Labour of Love," is a testament to the enduring bond between the couple and the traditional Dutch customs they embrace. The boy, dressed in the traditional Dutch costume, sits before his sweetheart, who is knitting socks by the fire. His hands are occupied with plaiting his girlfriend's long, golden hair, a labor of love and affection. The girl's expression is serene, her focus on her knitting needles, while her eyes occasionally glance up at her partner with a loving smile. The setting is simple yet warm and inviting, with the couple's traditional Dutch attire adding an air of authenticity and tradition. The boy's outfit includes a high-collared shirt, suspenders, and a wide-brimmed hat, while the girl wears a long, flowing dress with a high neckline and intricate lace detailing. The muted colors and earthy textures of their clothing and the rustic wooden chair they sit on further emphasize the sense of timelessness and simplicity. Ethel Parkinson's masterful use of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the scene, with the warm glow of the fire casting a gentle, romantic light over the couple. The intricate details in the couple's clothing and the textures of the fabric and wood are beautifully rendered, making this a captivating and enduring work of art. "A Labour of Love" is a poignant reminder of the simple pleasures and enduring connections that exist between people, and the importance of cherishing the moments of love and companionship that make life rich and fulfilling.
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