Vazen en florale motieven 1877 - 1880

This drawing of vases and floral motifs was made by Jac van Looij. The composition is immediately striking for its study in form and detail. Looij arranges various vase shapes across the page, each rendered with attention to proportion and decorative elements. The use of graphite creates a range of textures, from the smooth, curved surfaces of the vases to the intricate floral patterns adorning them. The contrast in shading defines the volumes and highlights the interplay between light and shadow, giving a sense of depth to the otherwise flat surface. We can see Looij's interest in classical forms, which intersects with a modernist sensibility through its attention to line and shape, reducing the objects to their essential geometric qualities. Through the interplay of form and texture, Looij’s study invites us to consider how the structure of the artwork conveys meaning, capturing a moment of artistic exploration.