Jongen draagt een andere jongen op de rug Possibly 1651

Harmen ter Borch created this drawing of two boys with pen in gray ink around 1651. Notice how Ter Borch captures the essence of movement and weight with minimal strokes. The composition centers on the interplay between the two figures, one supporting the other on his back. The stark contrast between the shaded areas and the blank paper creates a sense of depth, emphasizing the strain and effort of the boy carrying his friend. The lines, though simple, are remarkably effective in conveying the texture of clothing and the roundness of the figures. This piece, while seemingly simple, invites us to consider the nature of representation and the power of suggestion in art. Ter Borch uses a semiotic system, where each line and shade acts as a sign, collectively forming our understanding of the scene. It destabilizes our expectations of detail, proving that suggestion can be as powerful as meticulous representation. This drawing becomes a study in form and function.