Bij de lamp 1870 - 1931

Curator: Here we have "Bij de lamp," which translates to "By the Lamp," a watercolor and ink drawing by Willem Bastiaan Tholen, created sometime between 1870 and 1931. Editor: Immediately, I’m struck by the sense of quiet intimacy. The light from the lamp dominates the scene, casting a warm glow that contrasts with the surrounding darkness. Curator: That lamp is the key, both literally and figuratively. Consider how domestic settings were depicted and idealized in the Dutch art world; this portrayal is certainly aiming at the familiar, evoking sentimental feelings for home and hearth. Editor: Absolutely. The lamp itself functions almost as a hearth, doesn’t it? Light, throughout art history, has always been connected to themes of domesticity, safety, and the illumination of knowledge. Note the red shade. Is that red symbolic of warning or alarm? Curator: An intriguing thought. Perhaps the color draws the viewer closer into this social tableau. Beyond simple illumination, this lamp plays a complex part in establishing intimacy but I'm cautious of applying an overarching symbol here. There is a glass and a bottle. Was that alcohol drinking a widespread behaviour at the time in these intimate situations? Editor: Right, that detail brings a layer of possible confession and personal storytelling to mind. It creates a familiar scene where one's worries can be discussed and addressed. And perhaps it is connected with a potential artistic scene with one member presenting its creation, seeking opinions on the work of the presenter! Curator: What this image captures and communicates is largely due to cultural context. With Tholen’s associations with The Hague School, which aimed to represent everyday life and landscape painting and its impact on the artistic and academic conventions of the period. Editor: In my eyes, the way the figures are situated also plays with a very personal form of storytelling, making me feel a strong sense of psychological and familiar intensity! Thank you, Willem Bastiaan Tholen, for this lovely depiction that encourages many interpretations and possibilities of understanding social life and society. Curator: Precisely! Its evocative handling ensures that "Bij de lamp" remains timeless as we reflect upon it and, furthermore, challenges conventional interpretations of family or intimate scenes!