Landschap c. 1839 - 1872

This is Johannes Tavenraat's "Landschap," a sketch created in the 19th century with graphite on paper. The artwork shows writing by the artist, which at first sight might seem like a random collection of words, but it is a symbol in itself. The careful and descriptive labelling of the colours indicates a deep concern for the objective reproduction of nature; this impulse can be seen throughout history, like the Renaissance's emphasis on accurately representing the human form. These words that evoke colour and place have a life of their own, each with its own history and set of cultural associations. Take, for example, the word "worm", which has slithering, serpentine connotations, and an underworld darkness. The non-linear annotations take on new meanings when viewed in different contexts. In this landscape, the annotation adds a layer of meta-commentary, encouraging viewers to see the landscape not just as a scene, but as a collection of colours. The landscape becomes more than just a view; it becomes a collection of sensory experiences.