La Résurrection c. 1863

Jean-François Millet created this drawing, La Résurrection, with graphite on paper. This artwork presents a more immediate sense of the artist's hand than any painting. The medium of graphite allows for the visible layering of lines, which convey the artist’s process of building up form and exploring different compositional possibilities. The material qualities of graphite—its softness and ease of application— lend a sense of immediacy and intimacy to the composition. The varying pressure and density of the graphite lines create a dynamic range of tones, from the faintest whisper to areas of deep shadow, adding depth and volume to the figures. Millet's choice of graphite on paper is significant; it is a medium often associated with preparatory sketches, and the immediacy of his marks invites viewers to engage with the artist's creative process. This drawing speaks to the ongoing dialogue between traditional art and the evolving practices of art making.