Studie 1834 - 1911

This is Jozef Israëls's 'Studie', currently held at the Rijksmuseum. Although undated, this artwork can tell us much about the social context which defined Israëls practice. Israëls, as a Jewish man in the Netherlands, would have felt a deep connection with those marginalized by society. Israëls aimed to depict the lives of the poor and working class with empathy and respect. He grew to be known as one of the leading history and genre painters of the Hague School. The muted tones may symbolize the somber realities faced by those living in poverty, while the indistinct figures remind us of the relative anonymity of the working class at this time. Though seemingly simple, 'Studie' offers a poignant reflection on the lives of those often overlooked in society.