Tekenende leerling en zittende vrouw (model?) Possibly 1855 - 1930

This is Dirk Arnoldus Tavenraat's pencil drawing of a student drawing a model. Though undated, its style reflects 19th-century academic art practices, where figure drawing was a cornerstone of artistic training. We see here both the artist and the object of his study, which gives us a glimpse into the dynamics of the classroom. The seated woman is presented in a composed, almost stoic pose. The drawing captures the power dynamics inherent in the act of observation and representation. How does it feel to be on either side of the easel? This work invites us to think about the role of women in the art world, both as subjects and as potential creators, during a time when their access to formal artistic training was often limited. It's a reminder of the complex social structures that shape who gets to create and whose stories get told.