East Indian Cress (1919 CE)

Oost-Indische kers is a woodcut print created by Julie de Graag in 1919, depicting the delicate and vibrant blooms of the Tropaeolum majus, or nasturtium. This artwork, with its striking use of color and bold lines, embodies de Graag’s signature blend of natural observation and stylized Art Nouveau design, offering viewers a vivid representation of nature’s elegance through a modern lens.
 
Created in 1919, “Oost-Indische kers” reflects the flourishing Art Nouveau movement in Europe, where artists embraced organic forms and decorative stylization, particularly drawing inspiration from nature. De Graag, a prominent member of the Hague art community (Haagse Kunstkring), was deeply influenced by these trends. She worked closely with influential artists like Jan Toorop, refining her skills in woodcut techniques. The print was made using three separate woodblocks, each contributing to the final layering of black, red, and orange. This method allowed de Graag to create a richly textured image with a strong graphic quality.
 
An intriguing element of “Oost-Indische kers” is the fact that de Graag signed the work herself, a testament to her personal connection to the piece. Though she struggled with mental health issues throughout her life, her dedication to her craft remained unwavering. Her fascination with nature, specifically flowers, became a recurring theme in her work. This particular choice of flower, the nasturtium, may reflect her personal feelings of resilience or growth, echoing the flower’s cultural associations with patriotism and strength.
 
Within the cultural and artistic context of early 20th-century Europe the painting stands as a prime example of Art Nouveau’s deep admiration for nature. De Graag’s ability to stylize natural forms while maintaining their inherent beauty reflects the movement’s emphasis on organic, flowing lines and decorative patterns. The Tropaeolum majus, or nasturtium, was not only a popular garden plant but also carried symbolic meanings, often representing patriotism and courage in the language of flowers. De Graag’s depiction of this flower in her distinct style bridges the gap between botanical accuracy and artistic expression, emphasizing the beauty and symbolism of the natural world.
 
The print is a woodcut (houtsnede) executed in black, red, and orange, printed from three woodblocks. The dimensions of the paper are 14.4 cm by 15.6 cm (5.67 inches by 6.14 inches). The meticulous layering of the three colors demonstrates de Graag’s skill in the woodcut medium, a technique that was especially valued for its ability to create crisp lines and bold contrasts. This work exemplifies her mastery in manipulating woodblocks to produce a harmonious composition with both depth and clarity.
 
“Oost-Indische kers” was gifted to the Rijksmuseum collection in 1935 by G.A. de Graag, possibly a family member of the artist, and has since become part of the public domain.