Hagedis 1887 - 1924

Julie de Graag created this drawing, "Hagedis," using graphite on paper. The composition features a centrally placed lizard viewed from above. De Graag’s economical use of line captures the sinuous form of the reptile. The careful shading suggests the volume and texture of its skin. The blank space around the figure directs our focus to the subject, emphasizing its form. De Graag was deeply interested in the natural world. Her work reflects a broader trend in early 20th-century art. Artists explored organic forms and natural processes. This reflects a desire to move away from industrialization and embrace a more harmonious relationship with nature. The delicate lines and subtle gradations of tone invite a close examination of the lizard. It prompts us to consider the beauty of the natural world through careful observation. Consider how De Graag’s minimalist approach distills the essence of the lizard into its most fundamental forms, challenging us to see the beauty in simplicity.