Stadsgezicht met kanaal 1822 - 1893

This unassuming sketchbook page, made with graphite and watercolor by Willem Troost, is more than just a quick record. It's a window into the artist's process. The immediacy of the graphite lines gives you a sense of being right there with Troost, capturing the scene. The thin strokes of the pencil are barely there but hold immense power. The faint blue of the watercolor suggests the reflections on the canal waters, capturing the essence of the city with minimal effort. This type of rapid sketching was an essential tool for artists of the 19th century. Before photography became commonplace, these drawings served as visual notes, capturing fleeting moments and informing larger studio paintings. This was how artists made their living. So, next time you see a finished painting, remember the humble sketchbook page that might have been its starting point. It reminds us that art isn't just about the final product, but also about the artist's journey and labor.