Schaatser met een hoed 1808 - 1876

This drawing of a skater with a hat was made by Vincent van der Vinne van Lee using ink on paper. The controlled lines and minimal shading describe the scene economically. The artist focuses on capturing the figure's movement as he glides across the ice. It’s interesting to consider the relative effort required to make this image. Paper was becoming increasingly industrialized in the 19th century, and though drawing is a relatively immediate medium, it still takes time and skill to control ink in this way. The briskness of the line and the quotidian subject matter make it feel accessible rather than academic. Van der Vinne van Lee was trained in the traditions of fine art, but the directness of this drawing brings it closer to the everyday world. Ultimately, attending to both the artist’s skill, and the social context, enriches our understanding of art history.