Inkt- en pennenkoopman 1778 - 1838

Curator: Anthonie van den Bos created this drawing, "Inkt- en pennenkoopman," sometime between 1778 and 1838. It's an ink and pen drawing, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: Wow, he looks like he's stepped straight out of a fairytale gone slightly wrong. There's such a determined, almost grumpy, energy to this ink merchant, striding purposefully with his walking stick. Curator: It’s fascinating, isn’t it? Van den Bos lived during a tumultuous period, with the rise of nationalism and changing social structures significantly impacting art. Artists started depicting everyday life more. It may show social shifts or even an ironic commentary on the working class. Editor: I get a strong sense of individualism from this. Look at that face! It is etched with character. He seems utterly unconcerned with external opinions; it feels deeply personal. The ink lines themselves seem to vibrate with his movement. It is the definition of sketchbook art. Curator: It’s believed the artist was likely making observations directly from life, sketching individuals encountered on the street, which gained popularity in genre painting. The subject of the travelling merchant also symbolizes changing economics. Editor: He almost feels like a wandering poet. There's an internal world bursting out of this fellow. Makes you wonder what stories are tangled up with his ink and quills. I love how Van den Bos hasn't shied away from showing us the little imperfections, like that slightly oversized pack. Curator: Agreed. It's less of a formal portrait and more a glimpse into the human condition. We are reminded of our own journeys and the tools we carry. The level of detail for such a quick sketch speaks to the artist's acute eye and skill. Editor: Absolutely, I would not be surprised to find this on the inspiration board for the costume designer of the next Guillermo del Toro project! Such character! Curator: It reminds us of how art can both capture a moment and offer ongoing societal commentary.