Madonna and Child with St John 1700 - 1722

This drawing of the Madonna and Child with St. John was made by Adriaen van der Werff, a Dutch artist active around the turn of the 18th century. Van der Werff was celebrated in his own time as an independent master, but later was criticised for his artificiality and lack of emotion. This drawing offers an insight into the artistic institutions of the time. Dutch art was beginning to feel the gravitational pull of French classicism, with its emphasis on idealized forms and refined technique. Thinkers like Roger de Piles, who argued for the importance of color, and the rise of academies further complicated the Dutch art scene. To better understand Van der Werff's place in the art world of his time, we need to look into the writings of his contemporaries and patrons. Art history is more than just looking at pretty pictures; it's about understanding the complex web of social, economic, and cultural forces that shape artistic production.