Laat de kinderen tot mij komen 1663 - 1800

This drawing, Laat de kinderen tot mij komen, which translates to 'Let the children come to me', is made with pen and brown ink, brush and gray wash, over a sketch in graphite. An anonymous artist chose this medium to represent Jesus among children. Wash, ink and graphite are not particularly expensive materials, but are considered a traditional method for creating an under drawing or sketch for a painting. The artist has created shadows with the grey wash to enhance the three-dimensionality of the scene, with meticulous attention to the folds of cloth and the soft lines of the faces, giving the drawing an incredible sense of depth and texture. The amount of time and labor involved in producing such a detailed drawing is considerable. In its subject matter and also its mode of production, this drawing represents a commitment to the artistry of drawing and perhaps also, humility. This work allows us to consider the artistic choices inherent in the creation of the artwork.