Gezicht op de Stadhouderskade met het Rijksmuseum c. 1828 - 1897

This is a pencil drawing of the Stadhouderskade with the Rijksmuseum by Adrianus Eversen. Eversen sketched this cityscape using graphite, a relatively common material, yet one with its own unique properties. The inherent qualities of graphite, such as its softness and ability to leave marks on paper with minimal pressure, allow for the creation of nuanced lines and shading. By exploiting these properties, Eversen captured the architectural details of the Stadhouderskade and the Rijksmuseum with precision and clarity. This would have been a relatively quick and easy image to produce, although not everyone can do it! The social significance of drawings lies in their accessibility and versatility as a medium for artistic expression. Eversen's choice of graphite reflects the democratic nature of drawing, challenging traditional distinctions between high art and craft, while underscoring the expressive potential of everyday materials.