Straatweg met sleperskar; rechts huizen 1773 - 1843

Georges Michel made this street scene using graphite on paper. A seemingly simple combination, yet the choice of graphite, a relatively common material, speaks volumes about the artist's intent. Graphite, born from the depths of the earth and refined through labor, here captures the everyday life of the street. Look closely, and you’ll see how Michel uses subtle gradations of tone to evoke the weight and texture of buildings, the dust of the road, and the figures pulling a cart. The repetitive strokes, almost like the rhythm of labor itself, create a sense of depth. Michel's engagement with this readily available material suggests an interest in the lives of the working class, elevating a common substance into a means of artistic expression. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just about precious materials, but also the skill and vision to transform the ordinary into something meaningful.