Slecht nieuws 1875 - 1900

"Slecht nieuws" (Bad news) is a charcoal drawing by Dutch artist Jan de Waardt, housed in the Rijksmuseum. Created between 1875 and 1900, the artwork depicts a tense scene of three figures gathered around a table. A man, standing in the doorway, appears to be delivering unwelcome news to two seated figures, who react with visible distress. De Waardt’s work is known for its detailed realism and focus on everyday moments, capturing the intricacies of human emotion with a subtle yet poignant touch. The drawing’s stark composition and use of light and shadow create a sense of drama and immediacy, drawing the viewer into the emotional core of the scene.