Huizenrij en een molen, mogelijk te Delft c. 1828 - 1897

Adrianus Eversen made this sketch, "Huizenrij en een molen, mogelijk te Delft," using graphite on paper. Eversen, born in 1818, lived through a period of significant social and economic change in the Netherlands. His work reflects the rise of the middle class and their fascination with picturesque, often romanticized views of Dutch life. This sketch, with its delicate lines, evokes the quiet industry and domesticity of Dutch society. Eversen was known for his cityscapes and architectural studies; he captured not just the buildings but the atmosphere of the spaces. The houses and windmill, possibly in Delft, suggest a harmonious balance between human habitation and the natural world. As you look at this sketch, consider what the image tells us about Dutch national identity. How does Eversen portray a sense of order and prosperity while also leaving space for a bit of idyllic charm? Think about how the sketch makes you feel – perhaps a sense of nostalgia or a quiet appreciation for everyday life.