Stad of dorpsgezicht 1770 - 1785

Jan Brandes made this sketch of a town or village scene using pen and brown ink on paper sometime in the late 18th century. The brisk, efficient strokes of the pen give us a glimpse into Brandes’ world, a world built upon agriculture, trade, and religious faith. The drawing depicts buildings, people, animals, and modes of transportation, all intertwined in a vibrant, bustling community. The materiality of pen and ink is evident in the immediacy and directness of the lines, reflecting the artist’s hand and mind at work. The sketch invites us to imagine the sounds and smells of this vibrant community, offering a snapshot of a specific time and place. Ultimately, this sketch serves as a reminder of the importance of craft and materiality in understanding the social and cultural significance of art. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and consider the ways in which art reflects and shapes our world, blurring the boundaries between the fine arts and everyday life.