Studies van vissen, van voren 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof created this sketch of fish with graphite on paper. Dijsselhof, a Dutch artist active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is often associated with the Symbolist movement, which sought to convey subjective emotions through imagery. This work is interesting in that it appears to be a preliminary study, a glimpse into the artist's process. In the Netherlands at this time, there was a growing interest in the natural world fueled by scientific advancements and colonial expansion, where the Dutch had increased access to exotic species. The Rijksmuseum itself, as an institution, played a role in shaping artistic tastes and promoting certain narratives about Dutch identity and history. Dijsselhof's study may have been part of a larger project, perhaps related to decorative arts or design, reflecting the era's fascination with nature and the museum's role in showcasing such interests. Understanding the social and institutional context of art requires delving into archives, exhibition records, and publications from the time. This allows us to see how artists like Dijsselhof engaged with the world around them, and how their work was received and interpreted by society.