Stukken hout bij een bosrand 1848 - 1888

Anton Mauve created this drawing, "Stukken hout bij een bosrand," with what appears to be charcoal or graphite, capturing a stark woodland scene. The composition is dominated by dense vertical strokes suggesting a thicket of trees, contrasted sharply by the horizontal lines defining the forest floor. This interplay between verticality and horizontality creates a dynamic tension, drawing the eye across the landscape. Mauve’s mark-making is particularly compelling. The texture feels rough and immediate, almost as if the drawing was made 'en plein air', quickly capturing the essence of the moment. This immediacy reflects a broader artistic interest in portraying nature not as idealized scenery, but as a raw, unfiltered experience. The limited tonal range—primarily shades of gray—emphasizes form and structure over color, aligning with formalist principles that prioritize the inherent qualities of the medium. Ultimately, the drawing invites us to consider how line and form alone can evoke a powerful sense of place and emotional response.