Twee mannen en jongen bij een open haard 1856

Carel Christiaan Antony Last made this drawing of two men and a boy by a fireplace, using graphite, in the 19th century. Graphite, or what we commonly call pencil lead, is a fascinating material. Think of it: a direct transfer of thought, from hand to paper. The artist's hand moves, and the graphite marking follows. It's the most direct of all the drawing media. In this particular case, the artist makes the most of graphite’s inherent qualities to describe the scene. See how the shading and texture are achieved through varying degrees of pressure and density? Look at the faces; the artist has used layered strokes to describe their features, and even their expressions. This immediacy gives the drawing a directness that is really compelling. It's a great reminder that the simplest of materials, used skillfully, can result in a highly evocative work of art.