Portret van Arend Bakker 1825 - 1861

Jacobus Everhardus Josephus van den Berg created this portrait of Arend Bakker using graphite. A seemingly simple choice of material, the humble pencil can achieve great subtlety, as we see here. The artist has rendered the likeness with precise, delicate strokes, building up tone to model the face and clothing. Graphite's smooth texture allows for seamless gradations, capturing the soft fall of light and shadow. The marks are layered to give dimension to the sitter's features and convey the textures of his hair and jacket. Graphite, though commonly used, requires a skilled hand to achieve such realism and depth, as seen in the refined details of the facial expression and the crisp collar. This drawing transcends its everyday medium, elevating it to a work of artistry and careful observation. The labor-intensive process reflects the value placed on individual craftsmanship in a rapidly industrializing era, reminding us of the human touch behind even the simplest of materials.