Kalenderblad september met twee vogels - Theo van Hoytema

A 1902 lithograph by Theo van Hoytema featuring two birds, designed as a decorative calendar page for September.

This lithograph by Theo van Hoytema, titled Kalenderblad september met twee vogels, originates from his celebrated 1902 calendar series. Van Hoytema was a Dutch artist known for his precise observation of birds and animals, often rendered with a distinct graphic sensibility that aligns with the Art Nouveau movement. His work frequently appeared in the form of calendars, which allowed his decorative style to reach a wider audience.

The composition is structured around a central portrait of two birds, their long necks and beaks rendered with a focus on texture and form against a dark, hatched background. The artist employs a muted colour palette, relying on shades of ochre, cream, and charcoal to create a sense of balance. The upper portion features the month name, flanked by small bird motifs, while the lower section contains the calendar grid for September. The grid itself is integrated into the design, with small bird silhouettes replacing certain dates, demonstrating the artist's attention to detail and his ability to blend functional typography with decorative elements.

Van Hoytema's approach to lithography is evident in the fine, controlled lines and the subtle layering of tones. The border is decorated with repeating botanical motifs, framing the central subject and the calendar grid. This piece reflects the artist's interest in natural history, combined with a stylised, ornamental approach to composition. The work is a fine example of early twentieth-century Dutch graphic design, where the natural world is adapted into a structured, aesthetic format. The print captures the quiet, observational quality that defines much of Van Hoytema's output, making it a representative piece of his contribution to the decorative arts of the period.