Interior Scene and Study of a Dog (from Sketchbook) 1835 - 1839

This is a drawing, likely made in the first half of the 19th century, by Francis William Edmonds. The artist used graphite on paper to create this interior scene with a study of a dog. Graphite, a form of carbon, has been used for centuries, but it was the Industrial Revolution that allowed for mass production of pencils. These became essential tools for artists, designers, and clerks alike. Edmonds' choice of graphite is not accidental. It is a deliberate engagement with a material that was becoming increasingly accessible and democratic, a medium that spoke to a changing society. The lightness of the graphite allows for quick, ephemeral sketches, capturing fleeting moments and ideas, making it perfect for sketching. These were marks of everyday life for many people, and a medium for a quick and accessible way of seeing the world. By focusing on materials and making, we can appreciate how Edmonds' work reflects the values and aspirations of his time, and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and the everyday.