Stadsgezicht met huizen aan het water 1888 - 1889

Alexander Shilling made this sketch of houses on the water with pencil on paper. It typifies the kind of work made en plein air. The late 19th century and early 20th century saw a shift towards more direct observation and a focus on capturing fleeting moments in nature. As artists moved away from academic studios, they embraced the immediacy of working outdoors, often in rural or suburban settings. The sketch is a quick study that emphasizes spontaneity and direct engagement with the scene. By examining the institutions that supported and promoted such art, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values and artistic priorities of the time. Art historians rely on primary sources such as artist's letters, exhibition catalogs, and contemporary reviews to reconstruct the context in which artworks were created and displayed. Understanding art requires a careful consideration of its social and institutional context.