Atelierstempel c. 1884 - 1887

"Atelierstempel" (c. 1884 - 1887) by Willem Witsen is a captivating example of a drawing created by the artist during his most productive period. Currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, this piece is a testament to Witsen's exploration of light and shadow, and his penchant for capturing everyday scenes. The artwork presents a visual study of the artist's working space, featuring two sheets of paper placed on a table or easel. The juxtaposition of the blank sheets of paper with the surrounding clutter, and the faint traces of charcoal and pencil lines, suggest a moment of contemplation and preparation for a new artistic endeavor. The simplicity of the composition speaks to the artist's ability to find beauty in the ordinary, while the faint marks on the paper hint at the potential that lies dormant within the empty canvas. This work is an important study of the artistic process and the creative mind at work.