Toren van Overschie Possibly 1862 - 1868

Johannes Tavenraat created this pencil drawing, Toren van Overschie, in 1862. Tavenraat lived during a time when the Netherlands was undergoing significant transformations. The country saw the rise of a new constitutional monarchy and increasing industrialization. In this drawing, Tavenraat seems to capture not just the physical structure of the tower, but perhaps the essence of a community's identity. The tower itself might symbolize the enduring presence of the church in Dutch society. The inscription ‘in de Schilt’ tells us that this tower was an important part of Tavenraat’s personal experience as well. The drawing's simplicity invites us to consider our relationship with history and our sense of place. Does it highlight the quiet beauty of everyday life in a changing world? It certainly creates an emotionally resonant experience.