Twee vissen waaronder een Gurami, met kleurnotities 1876 - 1924

Curator: We are looking at a study by Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof titled "Two Fish, including a Gourami, with Color Notes." It's believed to have been made sometime between 1876 and 1924, and it is now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection. It is an ink and pencil drawing on paper. Editor: The initial impression is intriguing, almost scientific, like a page from a naturalist's sketchbook. There is a precision and detail to the lower fish drawing that gives it presence and captures the subtle organic shapes of scales and fins, contrasting with the abstraction of the fish at the top. Curator: Dijsselhof was very interested in integrating art with all aspects of life, including design. These preliminary sketches could easily be envisioned as elements of furniture or even textiles. In his role as designer, these preliminary ideas might eventually surface in a grander social role. Editor: Indeed. The fish themselves carry considerable symbolic weight across many cultures. Fish often represent fertility, abundance, and the subconscious. Here, the way Dijsselhof juxtaposes them feels like an attempt to capture not just their appearance but also their elusive essence. We often encounter the symbol of the fish in early Christianity, connecting faith with symbols. Curator: It’s fascinating to consider how these fish would be read depending on the historical period and the cultural context in which they appear. Take, for instance, the fashion for aquariums at the turn of the 20th century, something in which Dijsselhof would certainly be aware of as he made this work. Owning exotic fish signified wealth and a sophisticated knowledge of the natural world. The cultural association adds layers to what seems at first glance to be a simple sketch. Editor: Exactly. Dijsselhof leaves his personal "color notes" directly on the drawing, making us consider color more consciously, reminding me of illuminated medieval manuscripts, guiding our understanding and appreciation. Curator: Studying the artist's annotations gives unique insight into his artistic process and intention and places art in its true social context. Editor: I agree. And it enriches our understanding of how enduring symbols persist and are reimagined through an artist's personal lens.