Figuren op straat 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this drawing, Figuren op straat, with graphite on paper. It’s like he’s trying to catch a fleeting moment – a snapshot of life in motion. You can see how the marks aren’t labored over but are laid down quickly, capturing the essence of the scene. Look at the density of the marks on the left. See how the lines are layered and scribbled, almost vibrating? That area feels heavy and full, while the right side of the paper is left open, airy. There’s a real tension there. It reminds me of Cy Twombly, how he'd use simple lines and scribbles to evoke space and movement. This drawing feels like a visual record of the artist's thinking process, and, for me, that’s what makes it so exciting.