Studie 1896 - 1897

Willem Cornelis Rip created this study in graphite, measuring 113 by 159 millimetres. Rip was a Dutch artist working at the turn of the 20th century. This sketch gives us a glimpse into the academic art world of the Netherlands, with its emphasis on draftsmanship. During this period, artists were trained in state-sponsored academies, in a system which privileged certain styles and subjects. Rip’s study reflects the values of that institution: the careful observation of form, the mastery of line, and the attention to light and shadow. But it also hints at the broader social context of art in the Netherlands. The rise of the middle class had created a new market for art, and artists like Rip were increasingly called upon to produce works for a wider audience. To fully understand Rip's work, we might delve into exhibition records, artists’ letters, or the writings of contemporary critics. By understanding the institutions and social forces that shaped Rip's artistic practice, we can gain a deeper appreciation for his work.