Figuurstudies 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this sketch, called ‘Figuurstudies,’ using graphite on paper. The work's sketchy quality reveals a lot about the artistic process. Israels was working in the Netherlands at a time of great social change. Like many artists, he was interested in capturing fleeting moments and everyday life. Here, we see the artist's exploration of form and movement. The rapid lines and simplified shapes suggest a desire to capture the essence of his subjects rather than photographic detail. The Rijksmuseum's collection provides context for understanding Israels' artistic development and his place within the broader art world of his time. By examining letters, exhibition catalogs, and critical reviews, we can better understand how his work was received and interpreted by his contemporaries. This piece prompts us to consider the role of art in reflecting and shaping social values.