Houthakkers in een bos 1848 - 1888

Anton Mauve's "Houthakkers in een bos" (Woodcutters in a Forest) is a pencil sketch created between 1848 and 1888, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. The composition captures a moment of labor in the forest, featuring the outlines of two woodcutters, depicted in gestural strokes. This preliminary study reveals the artist's interest in capturing the essence of rural life through quick, expressive lines, reflecting the early stages of Mauve's artistic development in the 19th century. The sketch showcases the dynamism and spontaneity of the artist's hand, typical of his artistic approach in portraying the natural world and everyday activities.