Halbrunde Wandvorlage mit Atlanten-Konsole 

Karl Ballenberger made this drawing of a console with an atlas figure out of graphite. We see here an architectural sketch, and beyond the technique, we should consider the social implications of this kind of imagery. This work was made in 19th century Germany. The atlas figure, derived from classical antiquity, is here made to bear the weight of architecture. This represents an enduring fascination with the aesthetics of ancient Greece and Rome, but also, perhaps, an attitude towards labour. In this image, a single man is positioned to carry a massive burden. The image evokes historical questions about the nature of work and the role of the working class. To fully appreciate art like this, one must understand the culture that shaped its production. This requires a look into historical archives, literary sources, and social histories. Approaching art from this angle helps us understand not only the artwork itself, but also the society that produced it.