Calendar Page for March (Ducks) - Theo van Hoytema

A refined Art Nouveau lithograph by Theo van Hoytema, featuring a pair of ducks in water above a March calendar grid.

This lithograph by Theo van Hoytema represents a single page from a calendar series, specifically designed for the month of March. Van Hoytema was a Dutch artist known for his focus on animal subjects, particularly birds, which he rendered with a distinct sense of character and observation. His work often bridges the gap between scientific illustration and decorative design, a hallmark of the Art Nouveau period in the Netherlands.

The composition is divided into two primary sections. The upper portion features a pair of ducks, one white and one dark, swimming through turbulent, swirling water. The artist uses expressive, fluid lines to capture the movement of the water and the texture of the feathers. The contrast between the light and dark plumage creates a visual balance that draws the eye across the frame. The lower portion contains the calendar grid for March, framed by decorative borders that echo the organic, flowing motifs common in turn-of-the-century graphic design.

Van Hoytema’s approach to this piece demonstrates his technical skill in lithography. He manages to convey the weight and presence of the birds while maintaining a flat, graphic quality suitable for a printed calendar. The colour palette is restrained, relying on ochre, cream, and black tones to provide a cohesive aesthetic. This work reflects the broader interest in the early twentieth century for integrating art into everyday objects, transforming a functional item like a calendar into a piece of visual interest. The inclusion of the artist's monogram in the lower right corner of the illustration confirms his direct involvement in the production of this print. It remains a fine example of Dutch graphic arts from the period, demonstrating a clear focus on natural forms and balanced composition.