Liggende vrouw, lezend 1875 - 1934

Curator: "Liggende vrouw, lezend" or "Reclining Woman Reading" is an evocative pencil sketch by Isaac Israels, dating from somewhere between 1875 and 1934. It's part of the Rijksmuseum's collection. Editor: The immediacy of the sketch is striking. Look at the way the figure is arranged in the picture plane; the horizontal composition communicates relaxation. There's also a stark contrast between the density of lines sketching out her form and the empty space that surrounds her, creating a sense of quiet contemplation. Curator: Israels was deeply embedded within the artistic and social currents of his time, wasn't he? During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was an explosion of interest in portraying scenes of modern life. Figures in repose were used to express inner states of the individual in modern, secular society, which replaced traditional ideas in much of Dutch art. Editor: Yes, exactly. Focusing on the formal elements, notice how Israels employs swift, economical lines. Each stroke feels essential in capturing the essence of the woman’s posture, how the slight variations in pressure of his strokes describe contours, and the bare minimum of shadow gives three-dimensionality to the piece. There is simplicity and subtlety which is rare and appealing. Curator: He had an eye for rendering intimate moments. It invites the viewer to consider the position of women at leisure. In this particular period there was an emerging role for women, especially the emerging wealthy and middle classes who now had greater leisure time. Do you think she's at ease? Is she meant to be idealized? It's compelling and intimate isn't it. Editor: It is compelling. Her engagement with the book obscures any direct interaction. You might be interested in the psychology, while I remain fixated on the beautiful restraint of his marks. But seeing his hand in this form, is what continues to intrigue. The subtlety invites me into the artistic process itself. Curator: Absolutely. Israels presents a slice of life but with a clear awareness of his audience. This reminds us how even seemingly casual sketches are tied to a complicated social world and cultural moment. Editor: A quick sketch, but an invitation to prolonged aesthetic thought. That balance speaks to a lasting quality and gives enduring significance to it.