Ophaalbrug in Amsterdam, mogelijk bij de Zandhoek c. 1887

Willem Witsen made this drawing of a bridge in Amsterdam using charcoal. It’s a humble material, really – just burnt wood. But look how he coaxes it to describe the scene. The blurred lines give us a sense of the damp atmosphere. The varying pressure of the charcoal shows both the solid structure of the bridge and its reflections on the canal surface. The darkness makes it difficult to clearly see the structure of the bridge, but it is that very darkness that helps to evoke the mood and feel of the place. The lanterns cast light which reflects in the wet surfaces nearby, and this amplifies the atmospheric gloom. Witsen was part of the Amsterdam Impressionists, a group known for depicting everyday life. He’s not just showing us the bridge, he’s inviting us to experience a sensory impression of Amsterdam. By paying close attention to material and process, we can start to understand how the artist's choices shape our perception, and bridge the gap between seeing and feeling.