Two Girls at the Piano c. 1880

Jacob Maris’s "Two Girls at the Piano" was created using watercolor and graphite on paper. Maris's choice of watercolor is crucial; its fluid, translucent properties allow for a light, airy atmosphere, evoking a sense of fleeting moments. The visible brushstrokes and layering of colors reveal the artist's process, capturing the texture of light filtering through a domestic space. The graphite underdrawing, though subtle, adds a structural foundation to the composition. The subdued palette—dominated by soft whites, grays, and browns—enhances the intimate, contemplative mood. The work’s significance lies in its ability to elevate an everyday scene. The girls at the piano, perhaps practicing their music lessons, represent the values and aspirations of a middle-class family. Maris imbues this scene with a sense of quiet dignity. This is not merely a painting of two girls; it is a reflection on the cultural and social context of its time.