Kalenderblad voor februari 1911 met muizen en sneeuwklokjes 1910

Editor: Here we have Theo van Hoytema’s "Kalenderblad voor februari 1911 met muizen en sneeuwklokjes," created in 1910. It’s a print, drawing and what strikes me is its delicate, almost whimsical mood, with these adorable mice amongst the snowdrops. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Oh, I'm so drawn to the quiet magic of it all! It whispers of late winter afternoons, doesn't it? I imagine Hoytema, huddled in his studio, finding beauty in the ordinary, even the slightly melancholy grey days. See how the mice, like tiny philosophers, seem to be pondering the passing of time under those shy snowdrop blooms? It makes you wonder what secret lives these little creatures lead. What stories do you think those mice could tell? Editor: Stories of surviving the cold perhaps? Or maybe finding crumbs left behind after Christmas festivities! I notice the Art Nouveau style, particularly in the framing and the graceful flow of the vegetation. Curator: Absolutely! It's Art Nouveau at its most endearing, isn't it? That delicate frame acts like a tiny stage, highlighting the fleeting beauty of nature and everyday life. But consider also: calendar art at that time wasn't merely functional. It provided an intimate daily aesthetic experience for the owner. A little moment of joy, even in February! Do you find yourself thinking about that while looking at this image? Editor: I do now! It’s no longer *just* a calendar. It's like a small, daily invitation to appreciate the simple things. The mice kind of bring this home, adding warmth and personality. I won’t look at February the same again! Curator: Nor will I! The piece reminds me that true beauty isn't about grand gestures but about those tiny details whispering quiet truths. The secret conversations held by mice under snowdrops!