Vier mannen 1873 - 1876

Curator: Let's turn our attention now to "Vier mannen," which translates to "Four Men." This pen and ink drawing, made by Johannes Tavenraat, likely between 1873 and 1876, resides in the Rijksmuseum's collection. Editor: Wow, it's so immediate, isn't it? Like a fleeting thought caught on paper. The rough lines and simple composition give it a raw energy. The fella on the right—such swagger in that pose, reminds me of a gunslinger waiting for a showdown. Curator: It's interesting that you use the word 'raw', because that's precisely what makes these sketchbooks such invaluable documents. We gain access to the artist's process, almost unmediated. Think about the social conventions around the sketch in the late 19th century: It was primarily conceived as a preliminary exercise. Editor: Like the artist just freed his hand. Were these sketches meant to be kept private or seen by other artists at the time? Is there a historical angle to them? Curator: Yes, the sketchbook format allows for both private exploration and circulation among artist circles. The market for this type of artwork has become a lucrative source of income since then. It’s believed Tavenraat used this as a quick notation, possibly preparatory work for a larger painting or illustration. But regardless of what happened next, they had a strong function of visual commentary in society and artistic circles. Editor: I see. There's something really affecting to me in how he groups them; how some seem huddled together while the man on the right keeps a distance. And those quick, confident lines suggesting clothing and character, but it also leaves so much to my imagination. Curator: Absolutely. This piece offers insight into how an artist conceptualized figures, their interactions, and how poses contribute to storytelling and creating believable characters. The beauty really lies in this incompleteness; a story suggested rather than fully told. It gives the viewer permission to imagine the next step, whether in a larger picture or through their narrative about them. Editor: I totally agree! It makes you appreciate how much can be expressed with the most minimalist elements: It's almost as if the viewer participates with Tavenraat, so you wonder 'What happens next?' Curator: So next time you come across a sketchbook drawing in a museum collection, spend some time trying to imagine that artist creating that artwork from scratch. Editor: And thanks for lending me your analytical gaze; this peek into the creative process has stirred a strong desire to draw in my notebook as well.