Figuurstudies 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this drawing called "Figuurstudies" which is at the Rijksmuseum. Look closely at the sweeping lines that capture these figures reclining. They are not quite there, but they are suggestions. I can imagine Israels trying to capture the essence of their form in one go. He is probably thinking about how each line can be both descriptive and expressive, defining shape while also conveying the sense of relaxation. The lines almost feel musical, echoing a conversation that transcends language. It also reminds me of Matisse's drawings somehow. It’s as if artists are constantly tuning into one another, riffing on visual themes across time. This drawing is a little echo in a much longer game.