Grootburgeres van Deventer 1895

Editor: Here we have Hendrik Johannes Haverman’s "Grootburgeres van Deventer," a pencil drawing from 1895 currently housed at the Rijksmuseum. I’m really struck by the texture Haverman achieves with just pencil. What are your initial thoughts on this portrait? Curator: Well, immediately I’m drawn to the labor evident in this piece. Look at the density of the pencil strokes, building up value and texture to render the sitter's clothing, particularly that imposing cloak. Consider the societal implications, too: what does the choice of representing a "great burgher woman" in this way tell us about class and the artistic representation of labor? Was this drawing intended for public display or more private circulation? Editor: That's interesting – I was focused on the woman herself, but now I see how much the materiality contributes to the message. The rough texture almost democratizes her image. Was the artist making a statement with his technique by challenging traditional, idealized portraiture? Curator: Precisely! We have to remember that art doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Consider the availability and cost of materials during this period. Pencil, a relatively accessible medium, contrasts with the luxury fabrics she would likely wear, but it allows him to examine the subject with an incredible intimacy. How does this material choice alter the relationship between the artist, his subject, and his potential audience? Also notice how the materiality highlights certain class distinctions, almost commenting on access to different modes of artistic presentation, but with a democratizing force too, as a ‘rough’ medium can lend dignity. Editor: I never would have considered all that! Focusing on the medium and process really opens up the interpretation. Curator: It encourages a focus not just on the subject of the work, but also on the context and labor which create that work.. Editor: That makes a lot of sense. Thinking about Haverman's choice of materials really shifts my perspective on the drawing. Thanks!