Torso's van twee naakte mannen 1906 - 1945

Reijer Stolk made this sketch of two male nudes with graphite on paper at an unknown date. It is part of the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The quick, loose lines capture the essence of the male form, a subject often explored in art academies and studios. In the early 20th century in the Netherlands, the male nude would have been a common subject of study for artists looking to master anatomy and form. But unlike highly rendered academic paintings, this sketch is much more informal, giving us a glimpse into the artist’s process. During this period, art institutions played a significant role in shaping artistic styles and values. We can see the influence of classical ideals in Stolk’s focus on the human figure. But one also imagines the sketch as a challenge to social norms, particularly relating to the male body, within more conservative strains of Dutch society. To fully understand the art of this period, we must look at exhibition reviews, artists’ letters, and the records of art schools and academies. This helps to appreciate the complex dialogue between artistic expression and the social and institutional contexts in which it was created.