Schuit bij een ophaalbrug in Amsterdam c. 1887

This is Willem Witsen’s sketch of a boat by a bascule bridge in Amsterdam. It’s rendered in graphite on paper. The immediate impression is one of a dark, brooding geometry. Witsen employs a stark palette, focusing on the tonal range achievable with graphite to delineate forms and textures. The composition is structured by the strong verticals of the bridge supports and the horizontal lines of the bridge itself, creating a grid-like framework. Within this framework, however, Witsen allows for a degree of abstraction, particularly in the representation of the boat and surrounding architecture. The use of shadow is also strategic, adding depth and a sense of mystery. The rough texture of the graphite lends a tactile quality to the image, inviting the viewer to consider the materiality of the drawing itself. The sketch destabilizes traditional representations of landscape by emphasizing the underlying structure and the play of light and shadow. This approach encourages a shift in perception, prioritizing form and structure over mere replication of reality.