Studie 1834 - 1906

This is a pencil drawing by Maria Vos, made in the Netherlands sometime in the 19th century. The work offers us insight into the Dutch art world of that period, particularly the increasing opportunities for women artists like Vos. We see a rudimentary sketch of a simple geometric form, a cube, placed off-center within the page. In its very lack of embellishment, it is suggestive of the artistic academy and the social institutions that trained artists. The 19th century saw a growing professionalization of art, with formal training replacing older guild systems. For women, this was a double-edged sword. While academies opened new possibilities, they also maintained strict hierarchies and gendered expectations. By studying the archives of art academies and exhibition records, we can begin to understand the conditions under which Vos and other women artists navigated this changing landscape, challenging established norms while seeking recognition within existing institutions.