Diana at the Bath 1631

Rembrandt van Rijn created this drawing, *Diana at the Bath,* using graphite on paper. The material qualities of graphite are crucial here. Look closely, and you can see how Rembrandt used it to build up tone and shadow. The pressure and angle of the graphite determine the values on the page, varying between light and dark, while the tooth of the paper gives the drawing a soft texture. Drawings like this were made in preparation for paintings or prints, as studies for the artist to think through his compositions. Though they might seem casual, these drawings required just as much skill as other works, because artists often used similar preparatory sketches for their etchings. This particular sketch shows how much time and effort Rembrandt devoted to the study of the female nude. The graphite is more than just a means to an end; it's a vital component of the artwork, giving it a unique character all its own. Appreciating the material and process, allows us to consider the time and labor involved in even what seems like a quick sketch.