Alexis bij de lindeboom 1770 - 1775

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki made this pen and brown ink drawing, with gray wash on paper. While seemingly a quick sketch, the application of gray wash gives the image tonal depth. This controlled wash, when combined with the brown ink, gives the image a sense of volume. The artist's skilled wielding of the pen conveys the character’s theatrical gesture within the natural setting, and is testament to Chodowiecki's command of materials, and the way it has imbued this artwork with cultural significance. Chodowiecki was a printmaker and illustrator, as well as a painter, demonstrating his ability to apply his creative vision across different media, while challenging any clear distinction between high art and craft. This drawing shows the importance of materials, and making in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.