Schetsboek met 27 bladen c. 1886 - 1888

This is a sketchbook with 27 pages, by Anton Mauve, and it now resides in the Rijksmuseum. Mauve lived in a time when art was deeply connected to national identity. Sketchbooks such as this one provide an intimate glimpse into the artist's mind, showing us the foundations upon which grander statements were built. They remind us that creativity isn't always about the final, polished product, but also about the process and the personal journey of the artist. What did Mauve believe about his place as an artist in the Netherlands at the time? The very act of sketching – often done outdoors, in direct engagement with the landscape – speaks to a desire for authenticity and a connection to the land. Mauve sought to capture the essence of Dutch rural life. In doing so, he subtly challenged urban, industrial values, and contributed to a broader cultural narrative about the soul of the nation. This sketchbook is more than just paper and binding; it’s a repository of ideas.