Studie van een boomstam 1834 - 1879

Here we have Cornelis Johannes de Vogel’s "Studie van een boomstam", likely from the mid-19th century. Rendered in watercolor, the painting presents a stark, isolated tree trunk dominating the composition. The artist's choice to focus solely on this vertical element creates an immediate sense of monumentality. De Vogel’s exploration of texture is particularly striking. The bark is evoked through a tactile application of paint, with dark browns and grays mingling to suggest depth and age. The ruggedness contrasts with the smooth, pale background, amplifying the trunk's presence. This study functions beyond mere representation; it invites contemplation on structure and form. The tree trunk as a singular subject allows us to consider its verticality, its organic texture, and its inherent structural qualities. The artist prompts us to see the aesthetic potential in the natural world, revealed through a close observation of form and detail.