Studieblad met twee takken lelies 1869 - 1925

Antoon Derkinderen made this study of two lily stalks in brown ink, sometime between 1880 and 1925. This detailed botanical drawing connects to a larger revival of interest in craftwork and the decorative arts in the Netherlands. Like artists associated with the English Arts and Crafts movement, Derkinderen was interested in pushing back against industrialization by rediscovering traditional techniques. He explored his native Dutch visual culture for inspiration and took part in designing posters, book covers, and even stained glass. This drawing relates to Derkinderen’s larger artistic project by taking a closer look at the natural world. Lilies are a traditional symbol of purity and innocence in Western art. Artists often borrow from familiar iconography to add meaning and nuance to their work. To understand Derkinderen’s art, look to sources from his time that help to show his cultural and social context.