Ontwerp voor drukwerk c. 1897 - 1898

Carel Adolph Lion Cachet created this printing design with graphite on paper. Graphite, a form of carbon, is valued for its soft, mark-making ability and metallic sheen. Looking at the sketch, you can see how the qualities of the material influence the image, with the artist creating a study of printing design, exploring the distribution of text and abstract shapes. The marks are tentative, and the surface of the paper remains visible through the sketch. This adds to the informal feel of the design. Lion Cachet was deeply involved in the Dutch Arts and Crafts movement. The way in which the image is drawn - in an unworked, sketchy manner - suggests that the artist was concerned with the relationship between process and design, as well as ideas and materials, and in particular in the production of printed material. By emphasizing the materials, making, and social context, this work challenges the divisions between fine art and craft.