Kop 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat made this drawing, titled ‘Kop,’ using pen and brown ink on paper. The strokes are minimal, yet they build up a detailed characterization through the materiality of ink on paper. The quick, thin lines give the image an airy quality that captures the essence of the sitter with very few strokes. This approach to image-making places emphasis on skill. It uses the inherent qualities of the materials to bring a sense of immediacy and life to the portrait. The process of drawing is evident in the varying line weights and the visible layering of strokes, showing the artist's hand in its creation. The work is reminiscent of the detailed drawing of everyday life by artists, a far cry from the fine art paintings of that time. Paying attention to materials, making, and context reveals the level of skill of the artist. It questions the traditional fine art versus craft separation.