Illustrationsudkast til H.C. Andersen, Klokkedybet 1866

This is a pen and ink drawing by Lorenz Frølich, made as an illustration for Hans Christian Andersen’s story, "The Bell Deep." The drawing is simple, but look closely and you’ll see how skillfully Frølich used the pen to suggest texture and form. The cross-hatching gives weight to the bell, and the varying line thickness describes the rough-hewn timbers of the bell tower. We know instantly this is a humble, hand-built structure. It's fascinating how the choice of such a direct, unpretentious medium reflects the story's themes. Andersen often focused on the lives of ordinary people, their struggles and triumphs. Frølich’s drawing style echoes this concern, avoiding any sense of grandiosity in favor of a more grounded, accessible aesthetic. Ultimately, this piece reminds us that materials and techniques are never neutral. They carry cultural meaning and can powerfully enhance a story's emotional impact.