Twee schetsen van een hond 1873 - 1932

These two sketches of a dog were made by Wilhelmus Johannes Steenhoff, likely in the late 19th or early 20th century. They are quickly rendered in graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material. The immediacy of the marks conveys a sense of the artist capturing a fleeting moment, a snapshot of everyday life. The use of graphite on paper contrasts sharply with more laborious art forms like oil painting or sculpture, aligning the work more with the realm of casual observation. However, Steenhoff's skill is evident in the economy of line. He is able to suggest form and movement with minimal effort. The grey paper further contributes to the informal nature of the sketch, emphasizing the contrast between the white of the graphite and the toned ground. Ultimately, the appeal of these sketches lies in their unpretentious nature, reminding us that artistic value can be found in the simplest of materials and the most ordinary of subjects. It’s a perfect example of how a simple, quick, and readily reproducible process can reveal a more intimate side of the artist.