Zittend mannelijk naakt, van opzij gezien (2e prijs 1817) Possibly 1817

Pieter Godfried Bertichen made this drawing in 1817, it’s a nude male seen from the side, rendered in graphite. It's fascinating to see how institutions like art academies shaped artistic production in the 19th century. In the Netherlands at this time, art academies emphasized classical ideals and rigorous training. Awarding prizes such as the one Bertichen won here were a key part of this institutional structure. We see a self-conscious continuation of the classical tradition here in the emphasis on anatomical precision and idealized form, a clear indication of academic standards. But also there are some progressive elements. The image invites a more introspective and perhaps even vulnerable interpretation of the male nude. Understanding this drawing fully means looking into the archives of the art academy. By studying the records of student competitions, and the writings of instructors, we can gain insight into the social and institutional context that shaped Bertichen’s artistic practice.