Two Owls (1921 CE)

Twee Uilen (Two Owls) is a woodcut print created by Dutch artist Julie de Graag in 1921. This striking artwork presents two owls in a symmetrical, stylized form, emblematic of de Graag’s signature blend of natural observation and geometric design. With its monochromatic tones and minimalistic lines, “Twee Uilen” reflects de Graag’s ability to capture the essence of her subjects through simplification and elegance, drawing viewers into a contemplative, almost mysterious atmosphere.

Created in 1921, “Twee Uilen” comes from the later period of Julie de Graag’s artistic career, which was largely devoted to woodcuts and graphic works. De Graag was associated with both the Art Nouveau and De Stijl movements, which greatly influenced her style. The early 20th century was a time of significant artistic innovation in the Netherlands, and de Graag’s work emerged in the midst of this creative wave. Despite the struggles she faced in her personal life, especially with mental health, de Graag’s work during this period is noted for its clarity of form and emotional depth. The artwork was donated to the Rijksmuseum collection in 1935 by G.A. de Graag, presumably a relative, which helped preserve and publicize her legacy.

An interesting detail about “Twee Uilen” is the suggestion by art historians that the owl, often a symbol of wisdom and contemplation, may have held deeper personal significance for Julie de Graag. Given her known struggles with mental health, it has been speculated that the owls reflect her introspective nature, serving as a symbolic representation of her own inner state during the creation of the work. This personal connection between artist and subject lends the piece a layer of emotional resonance beyond its aesthetic appeal.

“Twee Uilen” occupies an important place in early 20th-century Dutch art, reflecting the growing interest in stylized, decorative forms derived from natural subjects. Within the Art Nouveau and De Stijl movements, which prized organic motifs and simplification, de Graag’s work stands out for its ability to distill nature into harmonious, geometric compositions without losing the essence of the living subjects. Owls, in particular, carry symbolic meanings of wisdom and mystery across cultures, and de Graag’s depiction of them, with their calm and balanced appearance, taps into these universal ideas while expressing a personal, introspective dimension.

The artwork  is a woodcut print, a medium that Julie de Graag often favored due to its suitability for producing crisp, clean lines and bold contrasts. The piece is executed on paper, with dimensions of 26.2 cm in height by 19.6 cm in width (10.31 inches by 7.72 inches). The print was created by pressing inked woodblocks onto paper, a method that allowed de Graag to create a dynamic interaction between the dark and light areas, giving the work its stark and impactful visual quality. The symmetrical arrangement of the two owls highlights the artist’s control over composition and her inclination towards geometric simplification.

The woodcut was donated to the Rijksmuseum in 1935 by G.A. de Graag. The print remains in the museum’s collection today and is part of the public domain, ensuring that it can be viewed and studied by future generations.