Vissen in een aquarium met waterplanten 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof created this pencil drawing, "Vissen in een aquarium met waterplanten," which translates to "Fish in an aquarium with aquatic plants," sometime between 1880 and 1924. Dijsselhof was a Dutch artist who moved from impressionism to become an important proponent of Dutch Art Nouveau, an era defined by its interest in nature. Here we see a sketch of fish, plants, and water, yet at the bottom a human figure appears to be sketching the scene, with the words "Licht groen" meaning light green. The human figure suggests an artist's internal dialogue, revealing the subjective way we perceive and try to capture the natural world. The figure also highlights the act of drawing. Dijsselhof’s involvement in decorative arts and his attention to natural forms—seen here in the fluid lines and organic shapes—reflect the era's attempt to merge art with everyday life. The drawing acts as a testament to the artist's process and an intimate look into his vision of nature.