Studieblad, onder andere met vleugels en handtekeningen 1884 - 1952

This work on paper, "Studieblad, onder andere met vleugels en handtekeningen" was created by Reinier Willem Petrus de Vries. We see graphic shapes made through pen and ink, and subtle washes of color. The artist likely began with an idea, and then made the work through a series of deliberate steps. The material and the making process were intertwined. The choice of paper, ink, and pen allowed for controlled lines, and the color washes add depth and texture. Note how the ink bleeds and absorbs into the fibrous paper, creating a contrast to the stark black lines. This work invites us to think about how the artist worked. The techniques, the tools, and the tradition of drawing all come into play. The work reflects the wider social context of art production, labor, and consumption. Appreciating the materials, the making process, and the broader context are critical for understanding the full meaning of the work. This challenges us to go beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.