Artwork
Willem Steelink II (1856-1928). Graficus
Willem Steelink II (1856-1928). Graficus is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Nicolaas van der Waay. It dates from 1908 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1908, this oil portrait by Dutch artist Nicolaas van der Waay captures the likeness of fellow painter Willem Steelink II, a noted graphic artist. Executed in an Impressionist manner, the work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection and presents a restrained yet intimate study of its subject.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter, Steelink, appears in a three‑quarter profile, his gaze directed subtly toward the viewer. Short gray hair, a tidy beard, and a dark coat with a white collar and bow tie define his appearance, suggesting a dignified yet unpretentious professional identity within the artistic community of the early twentieth century.
Technique & Style
Van der Waay employs soft, blended brushwork that moderates the transition between light and shadow across the figure’s skin and garments. The muted, textured brown backdrop serves to isolate the face, while the delicate handling of color and tone reflects Impressionist concerns with atmosphere and fleeting visual impressions.
History & Provenance
The portrait was completed in the same year that Steelink’s reputation as a graphic artist was well established. After its creation, the painting entered the Rijksmuseum’s holdings, where it has remained, providing scholars and visitors with a visual record of the collaborative networks among Dutch artists of the period.
Context
Nicolaas van der Waay, known for his work in watercolor, lithography, and decorative design, often portrayed fellow creatives. This portrait aligns with his broader practice of documenting the artistic milieu of the Netherlands, situating Steelink within a lineage of artists who contributed to the nation’s graphic and illustrative traditions.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolaas van der Waay (1855–1936) was a Dutch decorative artist, watercolorist and lithographer.
