Zeven voeten 1820 - 1826

Jean Augustin Daiwaille created 'Zeven voeten' – or 'Seven Feet' – using graphite or a similar medium on paper. The supple lines capture the nuances of the foot's form, from the subtle curves of the instep to the articulation of the toes. The use of graphite allows for a range of tonal values, which provides depth and volume to the drawing. The inherent qualities of the paper, its texture and absorbency, also play a part in the final appearance of the artwork. It is a relatively quick process using simple tools, and reflects the artist's skill in draftsmanship and their understanding of anatomy. While seemingly a straightforward study, 'Zeven voeten' speaks to broader issues of labor and representation. The depiction of the human body, even in fragmentary form, reminds us of the physical labor that underpins so much of human activity. Daiwaille elevates a mundane subject to the realm of art, prompting us to consider the value and dignity of human effort, and invites us to reconsider traditional art history.