Portret van Carel Vosmaer 1849 - 1921

Clemence Pruijs van der Hoeven captured Carel Vosmaer in this subtle portrait using graphite on paper. The artist's hand is evident in the delicate shading that defines Vosmaer's features and clothing. Pencil drawing, often seen as a preliminary step in the creation of more ‘finished’ artworks, like paintings, or something relegated to childhood, here becomes the main event. The artist renders the sitter's likeness through countless tiny strokes, a process that demands patience and precision. The soft grey hues and the gentle blending of tones give the portrait a quiet, contemplative mood. In its way, this reflects the values of the sitter, who was a noted art critic. The drawing testifies to the intimate connection between artist and subject, elevating the status of drawing to a respected artistic medium.