Drie hekken 1898

Reinier Willem Petrus de Vries made this drawing, Three Fences, with graphite and brush in the Netherlands. The image presents us with a straightforward study of ironwork. During the early 20th century in the Netherlands, there was a notable interest in decorative arts and craftsmanship, which can be seen as a reaction to industrialization. Artists and designers sought to revive traditional techniques and create objects that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. De Vries's study of fences can be viewed in this context, where the beauty of design and the skill of the craftsman are celebrated. The drawing invites us to reflect on the social and institutional context in which such designs were created, with a focus on the appreciation and preservation of craftsmanship. Art historians would look at the wider trends in Dutch art and design to better understand its role in the country's cultural landscape.