Koorstoel 1827 - 1891

Johannes Bosboom made this drawing of a choir stall with pen in grey ink and brush in grey and brown wash. Bosboom focused on architectural subjects, particularly church interiors. This drawing is a fragment, really; he only gives us enough information to spark our imaginations. Look closely and you can see how the quick, sure strokes of his pen define the complex Gothic details. The grey and brown washes add depth and volume, suggesting the play of light on the carved wood. Bosboom doesn’t offer a pristine depiction. Instead, there’s a wonderful asymmetry to the design, with the top part of the chair cropped out of view. Also, the artist included the shadow of the object to the right to highlight the different textures of the surface. Bosboom's work reminds us that every built environment, no matter how grand, is the result of countless hours of labor. The drawing captures a moment in time, a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans who built these awe-inspiring spaces. The next time you see a great cathedral, remember the hands that made it possible.