Schets van een aquarium 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof made this study of an aquarium using graphite on paper. A humble medium, graphite offers a direct and immediate way for artists to capture their observations and ideas. Here, the artist has worked with short, gestural strokes to define the forms and textures within the scene, capturing the movement of water and the solidity of underwater structures. The varying densities of the graphite create depth, and the translucent quality of the water is apparent. The paper itself, fragile and absorbent, takes on the marks of the artist’s hand. Dijsselhof's choice of materials reflects a broader context of artistic exploration and a desire to depict scenes from everyday life. The study's inherent qualities of materiality and process imbue it with cultural significance, emphasizing the importance of both observation and skilled execution. Understanding the materials and making of this work allows us to appreciate the artist's vision beyond traditional distinctions of fine art.