Brug over de Herengracht te Amsterdam, ter hoogte van de Leidsegracht c. 1901

Willem Witsen made this charcoal drawing of a bridge over the Herengracht in Amsterdam, likely in his sketchbook. It’s all about the push and pull of dark and light, isn't it? The charcoal feels crumbly, like it could smudge with the slightest touch. I love how the dark strokes build up the shadows under the arches and along the tree trunk, giving the scene a real sense of depth. Look at the way the light catches the top of the bridge and the ripples in the water, just a few quick strokes that bring the whole thing to life. There's a wonderful contrast between the solidity of the bridge and the almost ghostly reflections in the water. This piece reminds me of some of Whistler's nocturnes, with their hazy atmosphere and focus on tonal values, that same kind of quiet observation and the embrace of the everyday. It feels like Witsen is inviting us to pause and appreciate the beauty in the ordinary.