A tiger c. 1831s

Johann Nepomuk Rauch made this drawing of a tiger with graphite on paper. The tiger is shown only partially, in a close-up of the rear of the animal and its hind legs, and it’s sketched in a loose, informal way, suggesting a quick study from life. You can almost imagine Rauch standing there with his pad and pencil, trying to capture the essence of this powerful creature. Consider the qualities of graphite: its ability to create a range of tones, from soft grays to deep blacks, depending on the pressure applied. Rauch uses this to good effect, creating a sense of depth and volume in his sketch, with a technique that is rooted in academic practice. The quick, energetic lines give the impression of movement, as if the tiger might spring to life at any moment, it’s this tension between the natural world and its representation that gives the sketch its vitality, capturing not just the animal's physical form but also its spirit. It’s a beautiful example of how an artist can use humble materials and processes to create a lasting impression.