1878
Landschap met bebouwing
Willem Witsen
1860 - 1923Location
RijksmuseumListen to curator's interpretation
Curatorial notes
Willem Witsen made this landscape with buildings using pencil on paper. Witsen lived during a time of significant social and political change in the Netherlands, including rapid industrialization and urbanization. This sketch provides a glimpse into the changing Dutch landscape, reflecting a society in transition. The landscape is sparsely rendered; buildings are present, but secondary. Witsen was part of the "Amsterdam Impressionism" movement which embraced a more modern, subjective representation of their surroundings. This can be seen in the soft lines and focus on capturing the atmosphere of the scene. What feelings does the artwork evoke in you? Do you find a sense of tranquility or perhaps a feeling of isolation within this landscape?