Landschap met brug, vermoedelijk bij Dedham 1913 - 1917

Alexander Shilling sketched "Landschap met brug, vermoedelijk bij Dedham" with graphite, capturing a seemingly tranquil waterside scene. Born in America to Swiss immigrants, Shilling later established himself in London. His artistic journey was marked by his involvement in the cultural exchanges between America and Europe. This work hints at the romantic and pastoral themes that were explored by artists escaping the industrial revolution. The sketch depicts figures in an almost casual, informal manner, deeply immersed in the landscape, and thus evoking a sense of belonging. The figures in the landscape are reminders of the working class, who were responsible for maintaining the pastoral, picturesque countryside so admired by the middle and upper classes. The bridge, a potent symbol, can be interpreted as a connection between the people and the land, and the old world and the new. In its simplicity, this landscape invites us to reflect on our own connections to the spaces we inhabit.