Zwaluw bij een boom 1854 - 1868

"Zwaluw bij een boom" is a pencil sketch by Dutch artist Johannes Tavenraat, dated between 1854 and 1868. This quick study, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, features a stylized rendering of a swallow in flight against the backdrop of a tree, likely created as a preliminary study for a larger composition. Tavenraat, known for his landscapes and bird studies, utilized loose, expressive lines, showcasing his keen eye for detail and natural form. This small-scale work exemplifies the artist's preference for capturing fleeting moments of nature, and his unique approach to capturing the essence of his subjects through minimalist brushstrokes.