Charles Burki, Fire Brigade in Narrow Street Illustration, 1960s, Gouache & Ink on Paper

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Fire Brigade in the Narrow City Street – Original Illustration by Charles Burki, 1960s This striking gouache and ink illustration … Read more Fire Brigade in the Narrow City Street – Original Illustration by Charles Burki, 1960s This striking gouache and ink illustration by Charles Burki (1909–1994) captures the tense energy of an urban fire scene in the mid-20th century. Executed with Burki’s hallmark precision and cinematic realism, the work depicts a narrow European city street crowded with fire engines, ladders, and smoke billowing from an upper-story blaze. The viewer’s eye is drawn upward along the long central ladder disappearing into the haze, while the surrounding architecture and winding hoses lend the scene a remarkable sense of depth and motion. The composition is a masterclass in Burki’s skill as a draughtsman. The reflections on wet cobblestones, the perspective of tall, leaning buildings, and the subtle gradations of smoke and steam demonstrate his technical command and narrative instinct. Every element contributes to the impression of urgency — firefighters at work, onlookers gathered below, and vehicles positioned with mechanical precision. Created during the 1960s, when Burki was one of the Netherlands’ most accomplished illustrators, this piece was likely commissioned for a magazine feature or book illustration. At this time, Burki was frequently producing highly detailed works for publications such as *Elsevier*, *Panorama*, and *De Groene Amsterdammer*, often focusing on scenes of heroism, human drama, and urban life. The image gains profound resonance when viewed in the context of Burki’s own life. Born in Bandung, Dutch East Indies, he endured immense hardship during World War II, surviving both the bombing of a Japanese transport ship and the atomic explosion over Nagasaki while imprisoned as a POW. His postwar illustrations often reveal a deep empathy for human endurance and crisis, whether in war or civil life. Condition: Very good condition overall, with light age toning and minor traces of studio mounting along the edges, not affecting the image. The sheet retains strong contrast and fine detail. Framing tips: Best displayed in a deep black or anthracite frame with a wide white mat to accentuate the architectural perspective and smoky atmosphere. Technique: Gouache and ink wash on paper Maker: Charles Burki, Dutch, circa 1960s See less