Portret van een jonge vrouw c. 1840 - 1843

This is a portrait of a young woman, made by Sybrand Altmann likely in the mid-19th century, using graphite or charcoal on paper. The artist has created this drawing by layering tiny, controlled strokes of graphite. Look at the smooth gradations of tone, building up the light and shadow, and defining the contours of her face. The physical act of repeatedly applying these marks embodies a tradition of craftsmanship and technical skill. The artist has used a simple medium to create a remarkably life-like image. The drawing exemplifies the kind of academic skill that was highly valued at the time. This mode of production is tied to broader social structures. The portrait reflects the amount of labor, control, and the artistic conventions of the time. The result transcends the sum of its graphite parts, offering us a glimpse into both artistic process and 19th-century aesthetics.