Zittend mannelijk naakt 1646 - 1672

Curator: Adriaen van de Velde’s “Zittend mannelijk naakt,” dating back to the Dutch Golden Age, is a striking nude figure study rendered in charcoal. Editor: My immediate impression is one of quiet strength. There’s an honesty to the way the figure is depicted; not idealized, but real. You can almost feel the texture of the paper and the smudging of the charcoal. Curator: Precisely. Van de Velde wasn’t just creating art; he was honing his craft, training his eye. Figure studies like this were integral to the artistic process, weren’t necessarily displayed, so we get to see an aspect of artistic labor, a building block. How was artistic skill developed at the time and in the social and cultural context of the artist. Editor: And considering the materials – charcoal and paper – we’re looking at a very direct engagement. The hand of the artist is so evident. No layers of paint or complex techniques to hide behind. There is a simplicity and efficiency that comes through. The visible making process. Curator: Also, in considering what's been omitted, such as clothing, and why – this challenges our contemporary viewpoint. These types of studies, particularly in Dutch Golden Age, were important as a point of artistic ability for later inclusion within painting work. It wasn’t about depicting everyday people, more artistic anatomy and the creation of imagery with a level of understanding. Editor: Absolutely. I am really drawn to how he positions the body in the drawing. I notice how the drawing depicts his gaze extending beyond the composition, and his gentle repose is what stands out. Curator: Indeed, its placement here within the Rijksmuseum speaks volumes about how art education and production practices from the Dutch Golden Age have been institutionalized. A formal practice elevated to art. Editor: Thinking about how such studies, raw in their creation, offer a counterpoint to the often idealized finished works displayed alongside. Curator: Absolutely. This truly exemplifies what Van de Velde had developed at this stage of his journey. It shows you a unique journey and its evolution. Editor: A beautiful and insightful look at art-making!