Apollo speelt de fluit terwijl hij de kudde van Admetus hoedt 1576 - 1638

This drawing, "Apollo plays the flute while guarding the herd of Admetus," was made by Joachim Wtewael in the early 17th century, using pen and brown ink, with a grey wash. Wtewael was a Mannerist painter, known for his idealized and elegant figures. Here, he skillfully uses simple materials to create a rich tonal landscape. With delicate lines, and subtle shading, he evokes the textures of bark, fleece, and the smoothness of skin. The application of the grey wash softens the lines, creating depth and atmosphere. The choice of humble materials and the careful labor involved in creating the artwork speak to the social context of the time. While Wtewael's patrons were wealthy, his work reflects a broader cultural interest in the everyday lives of ordinary people. Looking closely at the ways in which this drawing was made allows us to appreciate Wtewael's technical skill, and offers insight into the cultural values of the time.