Man, Glass, Small Figures 1881

James Ensor created this sketch, "Man, Glass, Small Figures," using graphite on paper, a seemingly simple combination, yet rich in expressive potential. The softness of graphite allows for subtle gradations of tone, capturing the nuances of light and shadow that define the forms within the composition. We can see this in the man's face, and the way his features are softly described by the artist. The transparency and depth of the glass filled with liquid is also cleverly shown. Ensor's choice of graphite suggests a deliberate engagement with the tradition of drawing as a fundamental artistic practice, a foundation for further exploration in painting or printmaking. But the sketch is not incidental; it has an immediacy, capturing figures on the street, as well as a psychological mood. By embracing the raw simplicity of graphite on paper, Ensor invites us to appreciate the inherent beauty and expressive potential found in everyday materials, challenging traditional notions of artistic value and highlighting the importance of process in shaping our understanding of art.