Huis en schapen bij een hek c. 1884 - 1887

Editor: This is “House and Sheep by a Fence,” a drawing made with pencil around 1884 to 1887 by Willem Witsen, currently at the Rijksmuseum. It's like a glimpse into the artist's sketchbook. I find the sketchiness very charming, capturing a peaceful rural scene. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, it’s interesting you mention a "peaceful rural scene," because to me it speaks more of quiet observation, a snatched moment. Witsen, wasn't interested in perfectly rendered realism. Think about it, this feels intimate, doesn’t it? Like you’re looking over the artist’s shoulder, capturing what occupied his thoughts as he saw these things...the house and sheep feel more like placeholders, than specific, known things in some ways... what sort of 'place' do they hold for you? Editor: I guess...it feels immediate, as though the artist captured his first impression on the spot without worrying about the details, right? Like he quickly blocked out these shapes and forms. It almost looks abstract in a way. Curator: Precisely! Now, think about the time, late 19th century...Artists were actively turning away from academic precision, and choosing instead the fleeting impression, the essence of a scene...It's as if Witsen is asking: what's the least amount of detail I need to suggest 'house', 'sheep'...? In the face of what feels new in that period! The work isn’t the final output but feels very raw and like a thought bubble... Editor: So, this sketch is more about an idea than perfect replication. A reminder that art can capture an emotion or a moment, even in its simplest form? Curator: Exactly. It's not just a drawing of a house and sheep, it's about how those subjects struck Witsen, what it felt like to him *in that moment*… We are the temporary guardians of how it felt like to him in the moment now, isn't it precious, this opportunity?! Editor: It definitely makes me appreciate sketches so much more, viewing this work less like an exercise and more of capturing and saving the intangible thoughts to paper. Thanks!