Schetsboek met 21 bladen 1834 - 1906

This sketchbook was created by Maria Vos, containing 21 sheets bound together, a common format for artists to capture initial ideas and studies. The sketchbook’s material construction speaks volumes. The paper, likely handmade or early machine-made, would have been relatively affordable, reflecting the growing accessibility of art supplies during the 19th century. The cover, patterned with a repeated motif, suggests a burgeoning print industry, indicative of mass production and consumption. The act of binding these sheets together transforms them into a portable space for creative exploration. The relatively small scale invites intimacy and direct engagement, enabling Vos to record observations, experiment with compositions, and develop her artistic vision. Looking at an object like this reminds us that artmaking is always embedded in a web of material conditions. Recognizing these connections enriches our understanding, moving beyond traditional art historical interpretations, to appreciate the broader cultural and economic contexts that shape artistic practice.