Bruggetje en bomen bij een huis 1834 - 1911

Jozef Israëls created this pencil drawing, "Little bridge and trees near a house" some time in the 19th Century. Israëls came from a Jewish family and was shaped by the complex negotiation of identity and assimilation in 19th-century Europe. His work often reflects a deep empathy for the working class and the rural poor, and he became known for his melancholic scenes of peasant life. In this understated landscape, bare trees surround a simple dwelling, accessed by a small bridge. The image conveys a quiet, reflective mood, typical of Israëls' style. Israëls once said, "Art must touch our heart.” With its muted tones and simple composition, the drawing invites us to contemplate the lives and landscapes of those often overlooked, reflecting both the dignity and hardship inherent in rural existence. It’s a poignant reminder of the human condition, rendered with sensitivity and grace.