Jongenskop met hoed 1749 - 1809

Editor: So, here we have Joannis Jacobus Bijlaert's "Boy's Head with Hat," created sometime between 1749 and 1809. It's an engraving, so it's got that kind of scratchy, textured feel. It’s a pretty simple composition, mostly lines really, but there is something oddly sweet about it. How do you see this work? Curator: "Sweet" is an interesting choice. For me, it’s less sweet and more… introspective, wouldn’t you say? The geometric pattern surrounding the figure gives the impression of a framed scene. Almost like he's dreaming. Notice how Bijlaert used varying densities of line to create depth. Makes me think, what’s going on behind those eyes? Editor: Ah, so the hatched lines surrounding his head…they contribute to this mood. Curator: Precisely! And the soft lines used to model his face! It makes you wonder if this wasn’t some quick sketch Bijlaert dashed off as inspiration. Makes you want to sit down and grab your sketchbook, right? Have you experimented with hatching and cross-hatching to give depth? Editor: I’ve tried! It’s harder than it looks. I hadn’t considered this might have been a preliminary sketch either. Very cool! Curator: The beauty lies in this quick capture, almost like seeing art in its purest form: the seed of something magnificent! That boy is suspended there in dreamtime! Editor: Definitely given me a new way to approach my own sketchbook! I am happy to come across this. Curator: Isn't that the beauty of art? A continuous conversation through time! And we've just pulled up a chair!