Laan met rijtuigen 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this drawing, Laan met rijtuigen, with graphite on paper. What strikes me first is the energy of the marks, scribbled and scratched, like he’s trying to catch a fleeting moment. You can almost feel the movement of the carriages, the hustle and bustle of the scene. Looking closely, the graphite is applied with varying pressure, creating a range of tones from light grays to deep blacks. See how the lines are layered and interwoven, suggesting depth and texture? There’s a sense of immediacy, like he’s working quickly, capturing the essence of the scene rather than precise details. It reminds me a bit of Daumier's sketches, but with a lighter touch. Both artists share an interest in capturing everyday life, but Israels brings a certain playfulness to his work. This drawing is a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be polished and perfect. Sometimes, it’s the raw, spontaneous gestures that speak the loudest.