The Bridge of San Paolo 1793

Jacob Philipp Hackert made this landscape drawing of The Bridge of San Paolo on paper, using pen and brown ink with brown wash. What's striking about this piece is the way Hackert uses humble materials to create a complex, almost photographic image. He masterfully wields the pen, building up tone through careful cross-hatching. The layers of brown wash give depth and texture to the stonework of the bridge. Look closely, and you can almost feel the rough surfaces. The overall effect is one of tremendous realism, yet also a reminder of the labor involved in its production. The choice of medium also speaks to the context of this image. During the 18th century, drawings like this were often commissioned by wealthy patrons as records of their travels, or as souvenirs of the Grand Tour. In this sense, the artwork becomes a commodity, reflecting the social status of its owner. It is a humble material, made precious by the skill of the artist. This image encourages us to reflect on how the very act of making, and the materials employed, give rise to the cultural and historical significance of an artwork.