Lijkplechtigheden der Batavieren 1788 - 1790

Editor: This drawing, "Lijkplechtigheden der Batavieren," or "Funerary Rites of the Batavians" created between 1788 and 1790 by Engelbertus Matthias Engelberts, uses ink and pen to portray what appears to be a ritualistic scene. The subdued color palette really creates a somber atmosphere. What is your interpretation of the scene, focusing on its structure? Curator: Observe the clear division of space: a gathering on the left contrasts the trio around the horse on the right, while the smoke from the fire bisects them. The figures form vertical accents balanced by the horizontal emphasis of the stacked, rounded elements in the background. Notice also how the values, predominantly mid-tones, contribute to an overall sense of planar recession. What is the impact of that smoky haze in the composition? Editor: I hadn't considered the formal qualities of the haze, but it definitely serves to flatten the pictorial space, almost acting like a curtain between the viewer and the background elements. It seems to create a separation of action. Is there a hierarchy established, based on your analysis? Curator: Undoubtedly. The artist orchestrates the composition, moving our eye from the fire's light through the forms, towards the centrally positioned horse as the focal point, underscored by tonal contrasts, which lead us back to those horizontals in the back. It becomes cyclical. Engelberts guides us. Editor: So it's the formal arrangement, and the tonality specifically, that determines the reading and focal points of the piece. Very interesting. Thanks for walking me through this. Curator: My pleasure. The application of a formalist approach unveils intrinsic structures and allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of a work, wouldn’t you agree?