Ontwerp illustratie voor King Lear van Shakespeare: Koning Lear sterft bij het lijk van Cordelia 1878 - 1948

This pen and ink drawing, illustrating the death of King Lear beside Cordelia’s body, was designed by Jacob Pieter van den Bosch. The nature of pen and ink as a medium influences the aesthetic of the artwork through the simplicity of its texture, weight, and form. Ink is a readily available and economical material, lending itself well to the creation of accessible art. The fine lines and detailed cross-hatching shows the artist's craftsmanship, as he creates depth and shadows. The stark contrast of black ink on a white background captures the somber atmosphere of the scene, the characters’ emotions and psychological states being conveyed with precision and skill. The choice of pen and ink reflects a practicality, emphasizing the communicative function of the illustration. The artist uses readily available tools to convey deep emotions. Ultimately, the meaning of the drawing is not just in its narrative content, but in the careful engagement with materials, the art of making, and the social context in which it was created.