Ornamenten 1876 - 1924

Gerrit Willem Dijsselhof made this drawing, Ornamenten, with graphite on paper. It is a study of abstracted botanical forms, like curling fronds, leaves and seed pods. Dijsselhof was interested in how ornament could pervade every aspect of life. He was closely associated with the Dutch Arts & Crafts movement, which reacted against industrialization by emphasizing handcraft, material integrity, and the importance of aesthetic experience in everyday life. Note that this drawing is preparatory, not a finished work of art. The graphite lines are quick, but precise. Even in this preliminary form, you can sense Dijsselhof's sensitivity to natural form and the way it could be stylized and integrated into larger decorative schemes. Dijsselhof made designs for furniture, textiles, and even interiors. He wanted to demonstrate how life, labor and beauty can be aligned. By looking closely at this drawing, we can better appreciate the larger project to which he dedicated his career.