Rennend varken 1876 - 1924

Curator: Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof created this dynamic graphite drawing, titled "Rennend varken"—Running Pig—sometime between 1876 and 1924. It now resides in the Rijksmuseum's collection. Editor: It has a delightful sense of movement; the pig looks joyful, almost liberated in its stride. Curator: Dijsselhof captures the essence of motion with remarkable economy. Note how the line quality varies—thick contours define the back and belly, while finer strokes articulate the legs. It seems almost like he is aiming at finding the perfect representation of its form through successive passes. Editor: Pigs, historically, occupy an interesting symbolic space, oscillating between representations of abundance, good fortune, and, conversely, symbols of gluttony or uncleanness in various cultures. Here, the animal seems liberated. I wonder if Dijsselhof aimed for this particular duality? Curator: It could be that the inherent nature of this figure already speaks in and through a spectrum of significations; nevertheless, if we confine our scope to the formal aspects, one cannot but notice the stark whiteness of the animal. Perhaps that simplicity emphasizes speed and purity of form rather than any deeper moral association? Editor: Perhaps. Yet, one cannot entirely dismiss the cultural context. Farm animals represent an important pillar for social progress. There’s something inherently optimistic in the rendering—it mirrors that hope for plenty that pigs can sometimes embody. Curator: The line denoting the ground is minimal, nearly gestural; there are few details here, leaving negative space to contribute to the perception of movement. The rhythmic quality of the line serves as both horizon and trajectory. Editor: Yes, the overall lightness and rapid execution add to that impression. What I like most is how he distilled the pig into its purest form, untethered by historical meaning. Curator: The way Dijsselhof balances line and form to create the sense of vitality in a single graphite drawing remains effective even after a century. Editor: A great reminder of the diverse interpretations contained within art—where symbolism meets stark minimalist formalism.