Huis Possibly 1940 - 1945

Editor: This is an untitled photographic print of a house, “Huis,” created anonymously, possibly between 1940 and 1945. It’s currently housed at the Rijksmuseum. I'm immediately drawn to the sense of quiet. The stark contrast gives it an almost eerie feeling. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The most striking aspect is the weeping willow in front of the house. It is visually striking, almost obscuring the building itself. In many cultures, weeping willows are linked to mourning and remembrance, so its prominence could be deeply symbolic. What feelings does the house evoke, separate from the tree? Editor: Isolation, definitely. It's partially obscured, almost as if hiding. But given the date, between 1940 and 1945, could it have anything to do with the Second World War? Curator: Precisely. That period immediately infuses any artwork with historical weight, doesn't it? In a time of invasion and occupation, a home becomes the center of survival, but also the most vulnerable point of a family and people. The architecture of the house looks quintessentially Dutch. It becomes an instant symbol for the things people will sacrifice their lives to defend, doesn't it? Editor: It makes me consider who lived there, and if they survived. It also makes you wonder about the photographer and how they managed to take photographs at this time. Thank you so much. I’m going to see the artwork with new eyes. Curator: Indeed. Considering those untold stories woven within seemingly ordinary images provides such an important perspective. Thanks for your insights too.