Study of Moses’ robe to the painting ‘Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ 1864

Józef Simmler created this drawing of Moses’ robe as a preparatory study for his painting "Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary," using graphite on paper. The use of graphite as a medium is a key aspect of understanding the artwork because the inherent qualities of graphite, such as its smoothness, reflectivity, and darkness, allow the artist to create a range of tonal values and textures. The drawing captures the careful and meticulous labor that artists put into the drapery studies. Simmler engages with traditions of academic drawing, which has its own history of creative practices. The artwork offers insight into Simmler’s creative process and demonstrates his command of the medium, his attention to detail, and his ability to capture the essence of a subject through careful observation and skilled execution. Considering the labor involved in the production process and its connection to traditional academic drawing practices emphasizes the importance of materials and context in understanding the artwork's full meaning.