Zittende figuren, mogelijk Afrikanen 1875 - 1934

Editor: Right, next up, we have Isaac Israels’ drawing titled “Zittende figuren, mogelijk Afrikanen” which roughly translates to “Sitting figures, possibly Africans.” It’s made with graphite and pencil, dating somewhere between 1875 and 1934. It feels almost like a quick sketch capturing a fleeting moment. What leaps out at you when you look at it? Curator: Well, doesn't it remind you of catching someone unawares? The artist's hand dances across the page, capturing essence rather than detail. I see shadows suggesting a heavy weight that settles into the bodies… almost weary souls taking momentary rest. There's something deeply intimate about it. Does that make sense? Editor: It does! I initially saw it as just a quick sketch, but the 'weary souls' angle is really resonating with me. It’s much more poignant when viewed that way. I didn’t really think about the possible cultural context when I looked at the figures initially, but maybe there is an implication of something else that needs to be addressed, historically? Curator: Ah, you bring up something vital. This sketch may or may not capture the realities of how people who were thought of as ‘Africans’ at the time actually felt; or it might just capture how Israels thought they might be feeling… what it lacks in details it perhaps compensates with… maybe empathy? Editor: So, in viewing it, what should contemporary viewers focus on and maybe try and let go of? Curator: What to focus on? Perhaps it is Israels artistic perception, that captures an interesting observation about light, but the work is a clear snapshot of an artistic rendering – like any sketch- rather than necessarily one steeped in deep socio-political intent… let the figures tell their version of their story – they are weary souls seeking rest, if only for a moment! Editor: I like that. Thanks for helping me look beyond my initial interpretation. Curator: My pleasure. We always discover more when we open our minds to possibilities.