Figuurstudies c. 1828 - 1897

Adrianus Eversen created this undated sketch, entitled Figuurstudies, which translates to “Figure Studies” in English. Made on paper, the study presents us with a variety of characters within the artist’s community. Eversen was known for his cityscapes, and here his deft observation skills are turned to the portrayal of everyday people. What strikes me, and what is perhaps the most important element of these ‘studies,’ is the diversity present. We see laborers, children, and women of varying social positions. Some characters are alone, and some are engaging with each other. The image of a woman accompanied by a Black child invites us to consider the dynamics of race and class in 19th-century Europe. There is a sense of immediacy to these studies, almost as if Eversen captured these figures in passing. We feel as though we are there with him, observing and documenting this slice of history. The loose sketch-like quality of this work encourages reflection on how identity and social role are communicated through gesture, posture, and clothing.