Twee eenden op het water 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat made this small study of two ducks on water with pen in the 19th century. The economical lines and washes of ink on paper gives it a casual feel, but don't be fooled. This little drawing is a beautiful demonstration of value, or the degree of light and dark, in its rendering of form and reflections. The artist's skilled use of the pen, ink and brush is evident. You can see how each element, from the form of the ducks to the birds in the background, is rendered with precision and control. The dark shades of the ink create shadows and depth, while the lighter shades bring out highlights and contours. It’s the kind of drawing that many of us might think we could produce, but in fact it reflects a great deal of careful observation and practiced skill. Tavenraat has fully captured the scene's sense of time and place, and it invites us to consider the ways in which traditional techniques are imbued with creativity.