Het rijwiel "nuttig" 1894 - 1959

This lithograph by Gordinne, whose dates are unknown, presents a series of vignettes illustrating the many "useful" applications of the bicycle. The whole thing is a process of layering, a little bit like printmaking. The subdued palette of pastel blues, greens, and pinks gives the piece a whimsical feel, with the artist using delicate hatching and cross-hatching to create depth and texture. Take a look at the bottom row, where a crowd of cyclists is depicted with a remarkable sense of movement and energy. The artist uses a kind of visual shorthand to suggest the faces and figures of the crowd, reducing each person to a few simple lines and shapes. This technique reminds me a little bit of Honoré Daumier, who used similar methods to capture the dynamism of urban life. Ultimately, Gordinne's lithograph invites us to consider the many ways in which art can reflect and shape our understanding of the world, embracing the ambiguities and complexities of modern life.