Artwork

The Nauwerk Family

The Nauwerk Family, by Johan Christian Dahl, ink, 1819
The Nauwerk Family, by Johan Christian Dahl, ink, 1819

The Nauwerk Family is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Johan Christian Dahl. It dates from 1819 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Nauwerk Family is a drawing created by Johan Christian Dahl in 1819 using pen and brown ink over graphite on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a family of six in a simple domestic setting, with various members engaged in everyday activities such as eating and reading.

Technique & Style

Executed in a loose and rapid manner, the drawing features faint lines and shading, showcasing the artist's use of pen and ink to capture the scene without relying on color.

History & Provenance

The paper bears signs of aging, with handwritten notes or a title in the corners, suggesting the drawing has been handled and stored over time.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.