Mountain landscape with lake 

Franz Kobell rendered this "Mountain landscape with lake" using pen and black ink. It's a traditional method, yes, but think about the labour involved in the final image's linear detail, and the artist's control of line weights. The density of the ink strokes describes the textures of the leaves, rocks, and water with considerable skill, a feat that has imbued this landscape with social and cultural significance. Pen-and-ink drawing has a long lineage, from medieval manuscripts through old master drawings and more recently, printed illustrations. A drawing like this speaks to the kind of skilled traditions that run parallel to fine arts. The amount of work involved in its production invites us to consider how much labor is involved in creating works of art that, on the surface, may appear effortless. By understanding the materials and processes, we gain a deeper appreciation for the work’s meaning, prompting a reevaluation of the distinction between art and craft.