Vrouw, deels achter een muur of deur Possibly 1873

This drawing, by Cornelis Springer, was made with graphite on paper. It's a seemingly simple choice, but it speaks volumes about the artist's intentions. Springer could have chosen to work in paint, which would have allowed for a greater level of detail and realism. But instead, he chose graphite, a humble material that is often associated with sketching and preliminary studies. This suggests that the drawing was not intended as a finished work of art, but rather as a way for Springer to explore the figure and its relationship to the surrounding space. The lines are thin and delicate, and the shading is subtle, creating a sense of depth and volume. The choice of medium also allows for a certain level of spontaneity and immediacy. You can almost see the artist's hand moving across the page, capturing the essence of the woman in a few quick strokes. Ultimately, the drawing reminds us that art is not just about the finished product, but also about the process of creation. By choosing a simple material like graphite, Springer was able to focus on the essential elements of the image, creating a work that is both beautiful and thought-provoking.