Studies van een schaap, liggend en staand c. 1700 - 1800

M. Stokvis created these Studies van een schaap, liggend en staand, using sanguine chalk on paper. The drawing's appearance is greatly influenced by the sanguine chalk, a material valued for its earthy red tone. Stokvis uses the chalk's inherent qualities of texture to describe the varied woolly coats of the sheep. The weight of the chalk seems light, allowing for quick and expressive marks. This technique emphasizes the artist's direct observation and skillful hand. These studies reveal the skilled tradition of academic drawing. Perhaps, the artist aimed to capture the essence and form of livestock. The chalk medium is tied to wider social issues through its accessibility and ease of use, making artistic expression more attainable. Ultimately, understanding the materials, making, and context challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft, allowing for a fuller appreciation of the artwork's meaning.