Vier kaartspelers rondom een tafel 1834 - 1911

This preliminary sketch titled "Vier kaartspelers rondom een tafel" (Four card players around a table) by Dutch artist Jozef Israëls is a quick study for a larger, more finished painting. Created between 1834 and 1911, the artwork is a testament to Israëls's mastery of depicting everyday life with a focus on the human condition. The sketch features a dynamic composition with partially drawn figures, suggesting a snapshot of a moment in time, highlighting the artist's interest in capturing the essence of human interaction. The pencil lines are loose and expressive, conveying the immediacy of the scene. The sketch currently resides at the Rijksmuseum, offering a glimpse into the creative process of one of the Netherlands' most renowned Realist painters.