Koppen, o.a. van marktlui 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat created this ink drawing of various heads, possibly of market vendors, sometime in the 19th century. The composition is dynamic, with each head rendered in a distinct style, yet unified by the sepia tones of the ink. The texture varies from the quick, sketchy lines defining some figures to the denser, almost sculptural shading of others. The drawing explores the semiotics of portraiture. Tavenraat captures not just physical likeness but also an essence of character through exaggerated features and expressive lines. Each head is a study in contrast: the rough, unrefined strokes juxtapose with moments of delicate detail, like the subtle shading around the eyes or the texture of a hat. The arrangement of the figures, seemingly casual, also reflects a deliberate structure. The overlapping forms and varying scales create a sense of depth and movement, drawing the eye across the page. This informal layout challenges traditional notions of portraiture, suggesting a modern interest in capturing fleeting impressions and the raw immediacy of human expression.