Studieblad met een kindergezicht, het gezicht van een oude man en een wijzende hand 1800 - 1885

Editor: This is "Studieblad met een kindergezicht, het gezicht van een oude man en een wijzende hand," or Study Sheet with a Child's Face, the Face of an Old Man and a Pointing Hand, a pen and ink drawing from sometime between 1800 and 1885, here at the Rijksmuseum, and by an anonymous artist. It reminds me a little of preliminary sketches in preparation for a history painting, maybe? What historical narratives might be in play here? Curator: That’s a great observation! Thinking about the social context, particularly artistic training, is key here. In the 19th century, academic art prioritized mastery of human anatomy and expression. Artists would often produce sheets like this, experimenting with different poses and facial types as part of their study. Editor: So it's more of an exercise than a complete statement? Does the sheet format give us more of a window into the artist's process? Curator: Exactly! Consider the Rijksmuseum itself as an institution; it reflects a national narrative and values certain forms of art and artistic skill. Drawing was seen as fundamental. A sheet like this showcases the artist's dedication to academic ideals and would likely have been considered more valuable for its utility than for public display, highlighting its function within the art world of the time. Notice, also, that the pointing hand. How do you think that affects the dialogue implied in the scene? Editor: Good point. The hand gestures make me wonder if the younger face represents the past and the older one the present, a literal case of the past informing the future? The sketch almost takes the form of an ethical judgment... Curator: That’s a rich reading. By understanding the period's emphasis on technical skill, its art institutions, and socio-political climate, we gain deeper insight into these intriguing sketches. Editor: Definitely gives me a new perspective. I appreciate that. Curator: It also gave me something to think about - thank you.