Toren, mogelijk de Montelbaanstoren te Amsterdam c. 1887 - 1897

Editor: Here we have Willem Witsen's "Tower, possibly the Montelbaanstoren in Amsterdam," made sometime between 1887 and 1897 using graphite and pencil. There's a sense of unfinished business, a sketch capturing a moment rather than a perfect depiction. What can you tell me about it? Curator: It’s interesting how this sketch offers us a glimpse into the rapid urban changes in Amsterdam at the time. Think about the Montelbaanstoren; originally a defensive structure, by the late 19th century, it was almost an anachronism in a rapidly modernizing city. Witsen’s loose strokes, the incompleteness you mentioned, can be interpreted as a commentary on the fleeting nature of the old in the face of progress. How does the sketch's minimalist approach influence your perception of the tower's historical significance? Editor: It almost feels like the tower is fading, disappearing. Is Witsen saying something about how society was starting to view these older structures? Curator: Precisely! It encourages us to consider whose stories were being prioritized in that period of rapid change. Were the histories and communities connected to structures like the Montelbaanstoren being erased or marginalized in the rush towards modernization? How does this connect with broader societal shifts regarding class and privilege? Editor: So, this seemingly simple sketch becomes a lens through which we can examine issues of societal memory and progress. It really highlights the role of art in social commentary! Curator: Exactly! And hopefully, it pushes us to critically assess the narratives we inherit and to advocate for inclusive representation in historical discourse. I see how the power dynamics operate! Editor: That's given me a completely new way to view not just this drawing, but how art reflects—and shapes—our understanding of the past. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure, it’s a continual learning process.