Schetsboek met 13 bladen 1883 - 1922

Curator: At first glance, this “Schetsboek met 13 bladen” presents a tangible sense of history—a time-worn sketchbook that hints at the material practices of graphic design and drawing from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book utilizes a combination of print and mixed media. What is your impression? Editor: There's something somber about it, even with the decorative elements in the corners. The sepia tones evoke a real sense of age and perhaps a feeling of lost memories—an intimate glimpse into a creative past. The lettering slanting boldly across it evokes authority in an old-fashioned way. Curator: Exactly, note the deliberate choices in typography, the typeface and layout signal commercial design's evolution in the Netherlands. Considering the address is prominently displayed, what might this sketchbook signify in terms of cultural consumption? Editor: Well, visually the words "schilder" and "teeken" stand out--evoking artistic tradition and skill while also evoking earlier forms of script. Combined with the address of the supplier, the book is clearly linked to Amsterdam's art supply stores. A powerful association of Dutch art and craftsmanship. Curator: Indeed. The sketchbook, therefore, operates as both a functional tool and a cultural artifact, demonstrating the interplay between production, consumption, and artistic practice. Looking closely, what could these ornamental details communicate about values and aspiration? Editor: There's a certain sense of ornate detail with flourishes surrounding the stark sans serif typeset letters. Perhaps communicating status and respectability? And maybe communicating an association with more luxurious styles as opposed to functional commercial needs? It creates a complex symbol. Curator: It definitely represents an older time of artistry and culture as an idealized form for production. It hints at commercial values from decades past! It would be interesting to know how the artist chose this sketch book amongst a landscape of possible art supply brands. Editor: Yes, considering the subtle yet prevalent symbols of art and artistry. Now I can feel that past connection with those who sought to memorialize these very symbols, who might have felt the deep personal connection between creative symbol and tangible material. Curator: Looking at it in this way it becomes clearer what this object encapsulates. From this detailed glimpse into a sketchbook from over a century ago, we come to perceive not just art, but the fusion of work and cultural symbolism, the blending of craft and historical consciousness.