Portret van Lodewijk XIV 1838 - 1841

This portrait of Louis XIV was made with pencil on paper by Ephraïm Conquy in the early 19th century. It is an interesting choice of material because it reflects a shift in artistic practice, embracing more accessible and democratic means of production. The use of pencil allowed for a level of detail and precision, seen in the intricate rendering of the king's elaborate wig, regal robes, and regal scepter. However, the inherent qualities of pencil, such as its capacity for subtlety and shading, imbue the artwork with a sense of immediacy and intimacy. Conquy engaged with academic drawing techniques, a skill traditionally associated with the fine arts. This portrait invites us to reflect on the social and cultural context in which it was made, and the amount of work involved in the production process. Ultimately, by emphasizing materials, making, and context, we can challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft and gain a fuller understanding of its meaning.