Lezende vrouw in Gooise klederdracht 1876 - 1908

This drawing, by Martinus van Regteren Altena, shows a woman reading, and was made with graphite on paper. Graphite, in pencil form, is such a common material, we may overlook its particular qualities. Here, the artist has exploited its capacity for shading, building up tone with many tiny strokes. Look closely, and you'll see the delicate hatching that defines the woman's face and clothing. The very slight sheen that graphite can have is also on display. The softness of the material allowed the artist to depict the sitter with great sensitivity. The choice of such a modest medium is interesting. Perhaps Altena wanted to avoid any sense of grandiosity, focusing instead on the quiet dignity of his subject. In this way, the drawing becomes a celebration of everyday life, and a testament to the expressive potential of humble materials.