Smidse met vuur (Jan) Possibly 1906 - 1909

Curator: Welcome, everyone. We're looking at Willem Witsen's "Smidse met vuur (Jan)," likely created between 1906 and 1909. It’s currently held in the Rijksmuseum. This work is a drawing rendered with pencil and pen on paper. Editor: Woah, that's intense! Right away, I feel the weight of labor, all captured in these swirling dark lines. It's raw, immediate… you can almost hear the clang of the hammer. Does it feel almost claustrophobic to you, like we're crammed right in the forge? Curator: That's a keen observation. I think that feeling comes from how Witsen uses impressionistic techniques to not just depict the scene but also convey the feeling of being in such an environment. The depiction of a blacksmith is not unique for its time, but its emphasis can be seen through a lens of socio-political contexts and an admiration of labor in increasingly industrialized settings. Editor: Absolutely. And it also touches on the relationship with craft and manual labor, particularly given Witsen’s privileged background, almost like an attempt at a connection. But also, a possible romanticisation too? Is that me being too cynical? Curator: I think it is important not to view the artwork without a modern reading, and that includes engaging critically. We should explore what is unspoken or overlooked. But what about its overall affect? The subject matter is a blacksmith with fire. Considering this, how do you respond to the subdued tonal palette? Editor: Hmmm. Well, it does temper the drama, doesn’t it? Like the scene isn’t a spectacle but a glimpse into ordinary life. Which might be exactly the point: to capture labor plainly. It’s kind of wonderful how he managed that depth and dynamism with so little. Curator: I agree, the subtleties elevate the drawing. By drawing attention to specific themes we are able to consider broader commentary. This piece situates a figure performing labor amidst social commentary. It makes you consider Witsen’s motivations as well. Editor: It gives you that urge to want to roll up your sleeves. Okay maybe not *really*, but it captures something profound about the human experience within hard labor, the intimacy of craft, and of course those sizzling little details of just making art. I guess Witsen pulled it off!