Hansworst en de kaporaal c. 1902

This print of 'Hansworst en de kaporaal' by Pellerin & Cie. uses thin washes of watercolor to bring the story to life. Look at how the colors aren’t blended much, and seem to sit on the surface, more like coloring than painting. The colors are like the set design for a play, theatrical and even a bit goofy. The artist is really enjoying the process of building this little stage, it’s more about the action of making it than being too careful. The drawing is economical but lively, like quick notations of gestures and poses. You can see the artist thinking with their hand as they go. Look at how the green of the foliage repeats in the outfits of the figures. There is a real sense of rhythm, almost like musical notation. It reminds me of someone like Red Grooms in its playful approach to figuration. Ultimately, the painting feels unresolved, but that’s what makes it so engaging. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about the joy of making.