Begin van de stad 1773 - 1843

Georges Michel created "Begin van de stad" using graphite, resulting in a study of urban space with a subdued, almost ethereal quality. The composition is structured around a horizon line that divides the sky from the urban landscape below, giving us a sense of depth and distance. Michel employs delicate, linear strokes to define the buildings and structures. Notice how the density of the lines varies across the sketch, creating a textural contrast that animates the scene, evoking a mood that blends melancholy with a sense of historical observation. In the historical context, Michel's work provides insight into the shifting cultural values during a period of rapid urban expansion, suggesting how the formal elements of the drawing contribute to its content, turning a simple sketch into a reflective commentary on urbanization and change. The use of line and light captures the transient state of a city in perpetual transformation, inviting us to ponder the relationship between the built environment and human experience.