Stenen poort c. 1841 - 1853

Johannes Tavenraat made this sketch of a stone gate in 1841, using graphite pencil on paper. The fleeting nature of graphite, evident in the sketch's light, almost ethereal lines, allows the artist to capture a sense of place with remarkable efficiency. The work's material directly influences its appearance, conveying a feeling of spontaneity and transience. Tavenraat's choice of graphite, a readily available and easily manipulated material, highlights the accessibility of art-making and the importance of direct observation. Graphite, in its unassuming simplicity, encourages a democratic approach to art, breaking down barriers between the artist and the world around them. The slightness of the labor enhances the feeling of being on-site, and in the moment. This work reminds us that the most profound artistic expressions can emerge from the humblest of means.