Studieblad met gebouwen en stadsgezichten c. 1828 - 1897

Adrianus Eversen created this study sheet with buildings and cityscapes in the Netherlands in the 19th century. Eversen seems to be interested in the aesthetic qualities of old buildings. He captures the architectural details of buildings, with a sensitivity to light and shadow and their impact on the way we experience a building's presence. The Dutch in the 19th century were known for their pride in their history. They saw the preservation of historical buildings as a way to connect with their national identity. Eversen's drawing reflects a conservative appreciation for the past and the importance of preserving it. He’s not critiquing the art institutions, but rather documenting Dutch cultural heritage. By studying architectural styles and forms, the artist contributed to the growing historical consciousness of the Netherlands. By looking at this artwork, historians can gain insight into the artistic practices, cultural values, and historical consciousness of the Netherlands in the 19th century.