Bloemenstudies in paars en roze 1874 - 1945

Carel Adolph Lion Cachet created "Bloemenstudies in paars en roze" using graphite and watercolor on paper. These are humble materials, more allied to sketching than finished painting. The wispy graphite lines seem to trace out the underlying structure of the flowers, while watercolor washes delicately capture the subtle gradations of pink and purple, giving them a sense of depth. It's a process that is quick, immediate, and spontaneous. Cachet was well-versed in both the fine and applied arts, and this piece reflects that straddling of categories. The visible process in this work aligns it more with craft traditions, where the artist's hand is evident, and labor is valued. The light touch suggests a quick study rather than a highly labored composition. Understanding the materiality, the making, and the context helps us appreciate the rich and diverse nature of Cachet’s practice, and how it challenges conventional distinctions between fine art and craft.