Abklatsch van de krijttekening op pagina 73 c. 1884 - 1887

This is "Abklatsch van de krijttekening op pagina 73" by Willem Witsen, held at the Rijksmuseum, a faint impression from a chalk drawing. Though seemingly abstract, the very act of capturing a trace echoes the ancient concept of the "imprint," found in early religious practices. These ghostly lines remind us of the Shroud of Turin, or Saint Veronica's Veil, where a divine face leaves its indelible mark. The transfer of an image, even in its most rudimentary form, carries a sacred weight. Consider how the simple act of copying and re-copying images has evolved over time, from ancient stencils to the printing press. Each transfer adds a layer, altering the original and creating something new. What subconscious desires drive us to preserve and replicate, to hold onto moments that are inherently ephemeral? The "Abklatsch" invites contemplation on the continuous cycle of creation, destruction, and recreation.