Curatorial notes
Jacob Hoolaart made this quick sketch of a woman's head sometime in the 18th century. During this time, the Dutch art world, though still influenced by its Golden Age, saw new trends emerge, especially in portraiture. This drawing, with its minimal lines, prompts us to consider the social role of portraiture then. Was it a study for a larger piece, or a personal work capturing the likeness of someone familiar? The sketch's simplicity stands in contrast to the more elaborate, formal portraits commissioned by the wealthy elite. It invites us to ponder the daily lives of ordinary people. To understand this piece better, we might look into Hoolaart’s other works, or delve into the social history of the Netherlands during the 1700s, exploring themes of gender, class, and the evolving purpose of art within society.