Notities 1858 - 1869

This page of ‘Notities’ was created by Johannes Tavenraat in the Netherlands, in the mid-19th century. It’s a sheet filled with handwritten notes, seemingly a collection of observations and personal reminders. The practice of keeping notebooks became increasingly popular during the 19th century, fueled by the rise of individualism and the desire to document one’s experiences and thoughts. As travel became more accessible, artists and intellectuals filled their notebooks with sketches, observations, and reflections on the world around them. These notes offer insights into the artist’s interests, travels, and social circles. This particular page mentions locations like Cologne and Berlin, suggesting Tavenraat was something of a traveler. To understand this work more deeply, one could research Tavenraat’s biography, travel records, and other surviving notebooks. Looking into the cultural context of 19th-century Dutch art and intellectual life would further illuminate the significance of this seemingly simple page of notes. It serves as a reminder that art history is not just about finished masterpieces, but also about the everyday practices and intellectual pursuits of artists.