Hek after 1854

Johannes Tavenraat made this sketch of a fishing net using graphite on paper at some unknown date. Fishing was a major industry in the Netherlands during the 19th century, and Tavenraat spent much of his working life in Rotterdam, a major port city with a deeply rooted fishing culture. This work reflects an intense interest in everyday labor. During this time, artists began to engage with the realities of working-class life, making art that was socially conscious and relevant. They wanted to show the dignity of labor and the importance of ordinary people. This sketch can be seen as part of that movement, showing an appreciation for a common tool used by working people. Art historians use a variety of sources to contextualize artworks like this, including historical records, economic data, and social studies. These methods help us understand the conditions that shaped the production and reception of art and show us how art reflects the cultural values of its time.