Drie giraffen 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof made this sketch of three giraffes using graphite on paper at an unknown date. Dijsselhof, active in the Netherlands at the turn of the 20th century, was deeply influenced by the Art Nouveau movement. This is an interesting and unexpected choice of subject matter that provides a snapshot into European culture at this time. The sketch shows the animals with an economy of line, and this directness is very appealing. In Europe, during this period, the increased interest in the natural world reflects a broader cultural shift towards scientific exploration and exoticism fuelled by colonial expansion. Zoos and natural history museums became popular institutions for public education and entertainment, shaping perceptions of the animal kingdom. Dijsselhof’s choice to depict giraffes, animals not native to Europe, speaks to this fascination with the exotic. The Rijksmuseum's collection is an invaluable resource for understanding Dijsselhof’s position within the artistic landscape of his time. By exploring exhibition catalogs, period publications, and archival materials we gain a deeper understanding of the social and institutional context that shaped Dijsselhof’s artistic vision.