Portret van een oudere vrouw met een bril c. 1897 - 1898

Carel Adolph Lion Cachet made this pencil drawing, titled 'Portret van een oudere vrouw met een bril', at an unknown date. Here, the artist's hand is immediately evident, as the graphite pencil glides across the textured paper, laying down a network of lines. Each stroke contributes to the formation of the portrait, capturing the essence of the sitter's features. The choice of pencil as a medium suggests a sense of immediacy and intimacy, as if the artist sought to capture a fleeting moment or impression. The monochromatic nature of the drawing emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the composition. This is draftsmanship, pure and simple, but no less affecting for that. Ultimately, by considering the materials, process, and context, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the artist's skill and intention, challenging traditional hierarchies of art and craft.