Riviergezicht met boten 1837 - 1886

Maxime Lalanne made this river view with boats using graphite. This choice of material is critical to how we understand this atmospheric landscape. Graphite, with its soft, powdery texture, is perfect for rendering the hazy atmosphere and the tranquil water surface. Lalanne skillfully manipulates the medium to evoke a sense of depth and perspective, with the darkest tones in the foreground gradually fading into lighter shades towards the horizon, suggesting the vastness of the river. The use of graphite in the 19th century speaks to the rise of industrial production, as this material became more readily available and affordable, a tool accessible for both rapid sketches and highly refined drawings. The drawing captures a moment in time where sail power was giving way to steam, modes of transport driven by human labor and natural elements were in transition. By appreciating the materials and processes behind this drawing, we gain a deeper understanding of its cultural and historical context, and challenge the idea of dividing the "high" art and craft.