Contrabassist 1875 - 1934

"Contrabassist" is a charcoal sketch by Isaac Israels, a Dutch artist known for his expressive linework. Created between 1875 and 1934, the piece captures a musician in a dynamic pose, their instrument prominent in the composition. Israels' loose, gestural style highlights the energy of the performance, while the simplified forms emphasize the essence of the subject. The sketch, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into Israels' artistic process and his ability to capture movement and emotion with few lines.