Abraham Kuyper 1900 - 1920

Editor: So, this is a pencil drawing from between 1900 and 1920, titled "Abraham Kuyper," and attributed to Patricq Kroon. The rough quality of the sketch gives it a spontaneous feel, like we’re looking at a page torn straight from the artist's sketchbook. What stands out to you? Curator: It feels more than spontaneous to me – there is intent! It looks almost like a caricature, wouldn't you agree? There is a bit of an edge to the hurried pencil strokes, as though Kroon aimed not only to capture a likeness of the man, Abraham Kuyper, but also something of his essence, maybe even a bit of his…character. Editor: A caricature! I can totally see that, now that you mention it. The exaggerated features… So, do you think the artist was trying to make a statement about Kuyper? What *was* Kuyper known for anyway? Curator: Well, I imagine Kroon knew more than I, or perhaps you, will ever know. Kuyper was quite an important figure, a Dutch theologian and statesman. But regardless of who the sitter was, you almost get the feeling that this sketch is meant to be a record of the artist’s instantaneous *feeling* about a person, rather than a meticulously crafted likeness. The hat is great, a quirky touch, but…is he scowling at something in his hand, perhaps? Editor: He does look rather intense! It's funny how a simple sketch can convey so much. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure, it's like peeking over an artist’s shoulder to get at how a moment made them feel. Wonderful.