Jachthond 1840 - 1880

Johannes Tavenraat made this drawing of a hunting dog with pen and brown ink, likely in the mid-19th century. The choice of a pen-and-ink drawing speaks volumes. It’s a portable technique, perfect for sketching outdoors, capturing a fleeting moment. Notice the economical lines, quickly defining the dog's musculature and the soft texture of its fur. The brown ink gives the drawing a warm, earthy tone, grounding it in the natural world. This isn't high art in the grand, painterly sense. It's a study, a record of observation, and a celebration of the working animal. It's about the relationship between humans and animals, work and leisure, themes often overlooked in grand historical narratives. The focus on the hunting dog highlights the importance of animals in the social and economic context of the time. So next time you see a drawing like this, remember it's not just an image, it's a record of labor, a glimpse into the world of work, and a testament to the beauty of everyday life.