Haagse Bos 1871

Johannes Tavenraat sketched "Haagse Bos" using graphite, sometime in the 19th century. While the precise date of the artwork is unknown, Tavenraat’s broader body of work provides insight into the cultural values of the Netherlands during his lifetime. His drawings and paintings often depict serene landscapes and rural scenes, revealing a deep connection to nature. In this sketch the lines, though sparse, reflect a desire to capture the quiet beauty of the forest. Consider, though, the historical relationship of humans to the land at the time the sketch was made. As urban centers grew, the natural world became a place of leisure for some, and a site of resource extraction for others. The landscape also served as a place where national identity could be formed and solidified. It may be tempting to view the sketch through a romantic lens, but consider its place within larger questions of land use, ownership, and the representation of nature in art. What feelings does the sketch evoke in you?