Studie, mogelijk van figuren in het water c. 1888 - 1891

Willem Witsen made this study, possibly of figures in the water, using materials that allowed for spontaneity and immediacy. Witsen came from a wealthy family, giving him the freedom to pursue art without financial constraints. His work often reflects the spirit of the Hague School, a group of Dutch artists known for their realistic depictions of everyday life and landscapes. However, Witsen was also involved in more avant-garde circles, associating with writers and artists who questioned traditional social norms. This sketch invites you to reflect on themes of leisure, social class, and the changing role of art in society. The ambiguity of the figures encourages a personal interpretation. The loose lines and the brown stains could evoke a sense of nostalgia, or even a feeling of unease about the fleeting nature of life.