Koppen 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat created this ink drawing titled "Koppen," meaning heads, sometime in the 19th century. Tavenraat lived through a time of significant social upheaval in the Netherlands, including the Napoleonic era, which had a profound impact on Dutch identity and nationhood. The sketches present a range of faces, seemingly studies of everyday people. There's a sense of capturing the human condition through the simple act of portraiture. Tavenraat's decision to focus on the human face invites us to consider the significance of identity, and how it is represented in art. As you consider these studies, think about the stories each face might tell. What emotions do you perceive in their expressions? Perhaps Tavenraat sought to reveal the inner lives of his subjects through his art. These studies reflect the rich tapestry of human experience, inviting us to reflect on our shared humanity.