Zittende man 1646 - 1672

Adriaen van de Velde created this red chalk drawing, "Zittende man," during the Dutch Golden Age, a time when the Netherlands was a major center of trade, science, and the arts. During this period Dutch art often reflected the values and daily life of the middle class. Van de Velde, known for his landscapes and animal studies, here presents a figure study, capturing a man in a moment of repose. The choice of red chalk gives the sketch a warm, intimate quality, inviting the viewer to consider the human aspect of the subject. Notice how the man is depicted, his posture suggesting introspection or weariness. The clothing, while simple, drapes in a way that hints at a certain status, yet the overall impression is one of humanity rather than grandeur. Van de Velde’s "Zittende man" prompts us to reflect on the individual experiences and emotions that connect us across time.