Wijnkelder Possibly 1871 - 1878

Maria Vos created "Wijnkelder," a graphite drawing, now held at the Rijksmuseum. At first glance, the sketch invites us into a quiet, intimate scene with its delicate lines and soft shading. The small building, possibly a wine cellar as the title suggests, is rendered with a focus on its structural form and surrounding foliage. Vos uses line to define the architecture and the organic shapes of the plants, creating a contrast between the geometric precision of the building and the wildness of nature. The composition emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow, which adds depth and volume to the otherwise sparse drawing. Vos destabilizes the conventional landscape by focusing on a humble, functional structure rather than an idealized scene. Her approach reflects a modern sensibility, where everyday subjects are elevated through the artist's attention to form and composition. This drawing serves as a meditation on structure and nature, inviting viewers to find beauty in the ordinary.