Korenveld after 1854

Johannes Tavenraat made this drawing, Korenveld, with graphite. It now sits in the Rijksmuseum. The sparse lines belie the importance of landscape to Dutch identity. In the 19th century, as in previous eras, the Netherlands defined itself against the sea. Much of the land is reclaimed, thanks to extensive engineering. It’s perhaps no accident that landscape painting flourished during the same period. Artists depicted the land as both productive and as a symbol of Dutch perseverance and ingenuity. In this light, we can appreciate this quick drawing of a cornfield as more than just a study. The way the artist pays attention to the horizon line and the varying textures of the field and sky suggests a deep engagement with the land. To understand these themes more fully, look into the history of Dutch landscape painting and the role of agriculture in Dutch society. Consider the influence of the Dutch Golden Age, when landscape painting first rose to prominence.