Figuurstudies 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels created this ink drawing titled “Figuurstudies”. The sketch offers a glimpse into the artist’s creative process. Israels, a Jewish man, was a contemporary of artists like George Breitner and embraced a style focused on depicting modern, urban life. While Breitner captured the working class neighbourhoods, Israels often depicted the leisure activities of the upper and middle classes. He was interested in showing the lives of women, particularly those involved in fashion and theatre, reflecting his own interests and social circles. His choice of subjects reflected the societal shifts of the time, and the evolving roles of women in public life. This sketch, seemingly simple, shows his interest in capturing fleeting moments. It invites us to reflect on how artists choose their subjects and how those choices reflect their own position within society.