De voet van de Montelbaanstoren 1870 - 1923

Willem Witsen made this pencil drawing of the Montelbaanstoren in Amsterdam. This artwork gives us a glimpse into the artistic and social climate of the Netherlands in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Witsen, a member of the Amsterdam Impressionism movement, captured the everyday life and urban landscapes of his time. Notice how the tower, a historical landmark, stands alongside ordinary houses, reflecting the blend of tradition and modernity. The calm water and the presence of birds evoke a sense of quiet urban life. Amsterdam Impressionism was influenced by the socio-political changes of the time. The rise of the middle class and increased urbanization led artists to focus on the reality of daily life, rather than idealized or historical scenes. Witsen’s choice of subject matter, combined with his emphasis on light and atmosphere, reflects a broader cultural shift towards realism and a celebration of the ordinary. By studying artworks like this one, and consulting historical documents, we gain a deeper understanding of the social values and cultural changes that shaped the art of the time.