Portret van David van der Kellen 1911

Johan Henri Gustaaf Cohen Gosschalk made this drawing of David van der Kellen with graphite on paper. This portrait gives us a glimpse into the cultural values of the Netherlands at the turn of the 20th century. Notice how the artist emphasizes van der Kellen's profile, a visual code often used to convey respectability and intellect. The meticulous rendering of his features and attire speaks to the importance of social status and the conventions of portraiture within the Dutch art world. Portraits like these are invaluable for social historians. They reflect the tastes and priorities of a specific time and place. By researching the sitter and the artist, examining exhibition records, and delving into period publications, we can uncover the complex web of relationships and institutions that shaped artistic production. The meaning of a work of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.