Engelse Kropduif 1892 - 1940

Henri Verstijnen made this print, ‘Engelse Kropduif’, using simple carving tools and black ink to capture the essence of this fancy pigeon. Look at the negative space around the bird, that sandy colour, and notice how it defines the shape. It’s a process of reduction, taking away material to reveal an image. The velvety black areas contrast with the raw texture of the paper. See how the details on the bird’s neck are rendered with tiny, almost hesitant marks. The silhouette of the city in the background is like a stage set, framing the pigeon as the main character. I wonder about those white flecks on its wing—are they accidental, or were they purposefully left to catch the light? This print reminds me a bit of Emil Nolde, in the way it uses stark contrasts and simplified forms to create a powerful emotional impact. Like all good art, Verstijnen’s ‘Engelse Kropduif’ offers more questions than answers, inviting us to see the world with fresh eyes.