Paard en kop 1840 - 1880

This tiny drawing made with pen and brush in the Netherlands by Johannes Tavenraat, presents us with a horse and a head. While seemingly simple, this work opens a window into the artistic practices of the 19th century. Tavenraat was working within a well-established artistic tradition in the Netherlands. Artists often relied on patronage from wealthy individuals or institutions. The Rijksmuseum's collection itself reflects the institutional structures that supported and shaped artistic production. This artwork serves as a reminder that art is not created in a vacuum, but is deeply intertwined with the social, economic, and institutional forces of its time. By delving into archival materials, letters, and exhibition records, we gain insights into the complex web of relationships that shaped Tavenraat's career and the art world of his time. The meaning of this artwork depends on its historical and institutional context.