Lange Vijverberg, Hague 1883

Vincent van Gogh made this drawing of Lange Vijverberg in the Hague with graphite on paper. Rather than use a brush, he chose a humble pencil to capture the light and atmosphere of this city scene. The drawing emphasizes line and tone, with the graphite applied in delicate strokes to define the forms of the trees, buildings, and figures. Notice the texture of the paper and the way the graphite catches on its surface, creating a subtle shimmer. This direct, hands-on approach highlights the physical act of drawing. The choice of graphite, an industrial material, speaks to the changing landscape of artistic production in the 19th century. Pencils were becoming more widely available due to advances in manufacturing. While van Gogh is celebrated for his paintings, this drawing reminds us of the importance of accessible materials and the labor involved in creating art. It blurs the lines between high art and everyday practice.