Studie, mogelijk de weerspiegeling van een brug in het water 1870 - 1923

This sketch, possibly a bridge reflected in water, was made by Willem Witsen, a Dutch artist active around the turn of the 20th century. Witsen was part of a movement known as the Amsterdam Impressionists, who focused on capturing the atmosphere of the city and countryside. In this work, the loose lines and muted tones convey a sense of quiet contemplation of the industrial landscape. The shimmering reflections in the water create an ephemeral quality, suggesting the fleeting nature of modern life. The late 19th century in the Netherlands was a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization, which led to both progress and social upheaval. Artists like Witsen grappled with these changes, seeking to find beauty and meaning in the everyday world around them. By studying Witsen's work, we can learn about the social conditions that shaped artistic production during this time, and better understand the relationship between art and society.