Studieblad met knotwilgen c. 1780 - 1800

This is a study sheet with pollard willows by Barend Hendrik Thier. Note the artist's concentration on the natural forms of tree trunks achieved with delicate strokes of ink and wash. The arrangement of the trees on the page reveals Thier's interest in the compositional possibilities. The willows' forms invite us to contemplate the essence of trees beyond their conventional representation. Thier used an apparent minimal palette to instead explore the structural potential of each tree trunk, drawing attention to the patterns of nature itself. The eye is drawn to the variations in texture and tone, highlighting Thier's interest in visual order. The artist challenges the viewer to look beyond the surface, inviting a deeper understanding of the natural world. By doing so, Thier invites us to engage in the process of seeing, considering the role of art in expanding perception.