Dutch Drawing of a Standing Woman with Staff – Attributed to Verburgh, 1797

About this sheet

Dutch Drawing of a Standing Woman with Staff – Attributed to Verburgh, 1797
A finely drawn early 19th-century figure study of a young barefoot woman leaning casually against a rectangular pillar, holding a long staff or rod in her right hand. She wears a striped ankle-length dress with a simple sash, and a loosely tied headscarf frames her softly curled hair. Her gaze is direct and composed, giving the composition a quiet strength and dignity.

This drawing is attributed to Gerardus Johannes Verburgh (1775–1864), an accomplished Dutch draftsman and lithographer known for his genre scenes and depictions of women and children. This piece is executed in black and red chalk (or possibly crayon), a medium often favored by Verburgh, particularly in his early career. The confident yet delicate lines, subtle shading, and naturalistic pose are all consistent with his hand.

The lower right bears the inscription "V5 1797", which may refer to a date and possibly an early monogram. This places the work within Verburgh’s early period, when he produced numerous figure studies either as finished works or preparatory drawings for prints.

The use of chalk (or crayon) in red and black gives this piece the visual richness of a finished drawing while retaining the immediacy of a live model study. The vertical format and clear architectural form beside the figure add compositional balance and help frame the posture of the subject.

Drawings like these were often collected as independent artworks, appreciated for their elegance and expressive realism. Today, they remain prized for their insight into early 19th-century artistic practice and dress.

Condition report:
Overall good condition for its age. The sheet has scattered foxing, particularly in the margins and upper left, and some edge wear including a small tear at the top. The image itself remains strong, with no damage to the central figure. Unrestored.

Framing tips:
A warm wood frame, such as walnut or fruitwood, will complement the red tones of the chalk. Use a soft cream or antique white mat to highlight the subtle modeling of the drawing. Avoid glass with strong glare, as the surface has a soft, textured quality.

Technique: Red and black chalk drawing on laid paper
Maker: Attributed to Gerardus Johannes Verburgh, The Netherlands, dated 1797