Liggende hond 1777

Cornelis Brouwer sketched "Liggende hond" with pen in grey ink around the late 18th century, a compact study capturing a resting dog. The composition emphasizes the dog’s curled form, achieved through short, hatched strokes that model its fur and the cushion it lies upon. Look closely at the textures: the rough, scribbled lines convey softness, while the linear structure underneath suggests the cushion's form. The tonal range, though subtle, creates a sense of depth, differentiating the dog from its background. Brouwer’s economy of line is striking. He reduces detail to essential forms, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow to suggest volume and texture. This approach reflects the period's interest in direct observation and the expressive potential of drawing. The sketch also exemplifies the shift towards valuing immediacy and the artist’s personal touch. Consider how Brouwer uses line not just to depict form, but to explore the essence of his subject. It’s a reminder that a drawing can be both a representation and an interpretation, inviting us to see the world with fresh eyes.