Koppen van een kind c. 1885 - 1911

"Koppen van een kind" (Heads of a Child), a delicate pencil sketch by Dutch artist Jozef Israëls, captures the essence of childhood innocence. Dating back to the late 19th or early 20th century, the work showcases Israëls' mastery of capturing fleeting moments of human emotion. The sketch depicts the head of a child, its features subtly rendered in layered lines. The loose, expressive lines suggest a rapid gesture, emphasizing the dynamism of the subject. The artist's use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and volume, further enhancing the realism of the child's head. The composition is simple yet captivating, inviting the viewer to connect with the child's innocent gaze. This work, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, stands as a testament to Israëls' ability to express human emotions with nuanced strokes.