Planten 1841 - 1853

This pencil sketch, titled "Planten," was made by Johannes Tavenraat in the 19th century. Graphite pencil on paper: these are very basic materials, humbly deployed. But that's precisely the point. This isn't a finished work; it's a notation, a way of jotting down an impression, almost like handwriting. You can see how Tavenraat is working, feeling his way into the scene before him. He notes the colours in the margins - "gwart Groen," "lila warmers" - which tells you something about his intentions. This wasn't a quick sketch done on the run; it was a thoughtful engagement with the landscape. It shows how even the simplest of materials, when used with care and attention, can yield significant insights. The time and labour put into this piece, the attention to detail and the inherent qualities of the medium, allow us to appreciate the artist's vision. It challenges the traditional distinction between a sketch and a finished artwork.