Gans in het water 1862 - 1864

This is a pencil drawing of a goose in water, made by Johannes Tavenraat, a Dutch artist, in the 19th century. It gives us an insight into the world of 19th-century Dutch art and its relationship with the natural world. During this period, the Netherlands experienced a surge in artistic interest in landscapes and rural life. As Dutch society became increasingly urbanized and industrialized, there was a growing desire to reconnect with nature and celebrate the beauty of the countryside. This drawing is a product of a cultural interest in the everyday life of animals, reflecting a broader romantic sensibility. The Rijksmuseum, as a national institution, plays a role in shaping our understanding of Dutch cultural identity and heritage. To understand this drawing better, researchers can explore archives, letters, and exhibition catalogs from that time, and delve deeper into the social and cultural contexts that shaped Tavenraat's artistic vision.