Kozakkenkoor 1875 - 1934

Isaac Israels made this sketch, Kozakkenkoor, with graphite on paper, and it really shows the artist thinking on the page. The marks feel direct and exploratory, building the image through layers of tone and texture. Look at how the shading is built up, those hatched lines, almost scribbled, creating depth and volume. You can really feel the pressure of the pencil, especially in the darker areas. These marks are not just descriptive; they're expressive, giving us a sense of movement and energy. The faces emerge from the shadows, full of character. It's interesting how Israels captures a sense of collective energy with such simple means. This kind of directness reminds me of Daumier's sketches, that feeling of capturing a fleeting moment, full of life and immediacy. It is these qualities that makes art feel so alive.