Staande figuur in een lang gewaad 1849 - 1917

This sketch of a standing figure in a long robe was made by Matthijs Maris, using graphite on paper. The qualities of this sketch lie in its ephemeral nature; the graphite lines barely graze the surface of the page, creating a sense of lightness and impermanence. Looking closely, you can see the subtle gradations in tone achieved through variations in pressure, lending depth and volume to the figure. The grid of the paper beneath is visible, subtly grounding the ethereal form, yet also reminding us of the industrial production of paper, and its availability to artists of all kinds. In his practice, Maris appears to be engaging with the immediacy of drawing, capturing fleeting impressions and ideas as they take shape in his mind. The unfinished quality of the sketch invites the viewer to participate in the creative process, filling in the gaps and imagining the final form. Ultimately, this sketch reminds us that art is not just about the finished product, but also about the journey of exploration and discovery that takes place in the artist's studio.