Bomen voor gebouwen 1882 - 1923

"Bomen voor gebouwen" (Trees in front of buildings), created by Willem Witsen between 1882 and 1923, is a charcoal drawing that is currently housed at the Rijksmuseum. The piece, likely a preliminary study, focuses on the loose, gestural lines of trees and the negative space they create against a background of buildings. This approach to drawing reflects Witsen's interest in capturing the essence of a scene through quick sketches and expressive brushstrokes. The work exemplifies the artist's exploration of nature and its relationship to urban environments, a recurring theme in his art.