Kip bij een hut van hout en riet 1839 - 1872

Johannes Tavenraat rendered "Hen by a Hut of Wood and Reed" in graphite on paper sometime during the 19th century. This seemingly simple sketch comes from an era defined by stark class divisions, and the growth of industrialization which threatened traditional ways of life. While on its surface, the drawing depicts a tranquil, rustic scene, it is important to consider the narratives and power structures that are present. The hen, often a symbol of domesticity and sustenance, is placed within the landscape of a humble dwelling. The sketch aesthetic can evoke the Romantic movement which idealized rural life, but it's also worth noting the realities of rural poverty during this period. Tavenraat grew up in a merchant family, meaning he likely would have observed class differences. This work invites us to consider the lived experiences of those in the margins, while reminding us of the complex relationship between humans, animals, and the spaces we inhabit.