Dode hazen Possibly 1869

Johannes Tavenraat made this drawing, "Dode hazen," with pen in gray ink, likely in the mid-19th century. The composition presents three lifeless hares against a monochrome backdrop, creating a stark, immediate visual impact. Tavenraat's choice of medium and technique invites us to consider the structural elements at play. The delicate lines and shading bring a palpable sense of weight and stillness to the animals. The hares are not romanticized; instead, their forms suggest vulnerability and finality. The arrangement of the hares challenges traditional notions of naturalistic representation. By focusing on their inert forms, Tavenraat disrupts any idealized or dynamic portrayal of wildlife. It is in this tension between representation and reality that the drawing finds its power, inviting viewers to reflect on the transient nature of life. The drawing's formal qualities invite ongoing dialogue and personal engagement.