Schetsboek met 24 bladen c. 1840 - 1843

This sketchbook with 24 pages was made by Sybrand Altmann sometime during the 19th century. Bound in a reddish-brown cover that bears the marks of time, this object invites us to consider the role of the artist within the landscape of 19th-century Dutch society. Altmann, born in 1822, lived during a period of significant social and political change. The Dutch colonial empire was expanding, and industrialization was reshaping the economic landscape. As an artist, Altmann would have been navigating these shifts, finding his place within the changing world. Within these pages are sketches that may reveal his personal experiences, beliefs, and his observations of the world around him. It’s interesting to think about how these sketches might represent a traditional view or develop alternative narratives that challenged societal norms. The sketchbook also stands as a personal artifact that bridges us to the emotional and personal dimensions of artistic creation. It reminds us of the importance of art in shaping and reflecting our understanding of society.