Staande jongeman 1825 - 1873

This is 'Standing Young Man' by Pierre Louis Dubourcq, a watercolor on paper. The quick, gestural strokes suggest this was a study, rather than a finished work of art. Look closely, and you'll notice the artist has used the inherent qualities of the materials, the fluid transparency of the watercolor, and the absorbency of the paper, to capture light and shadow. The varying dilutions of the pigment create depth, particularly in the folds of the garment, and contours of the figure. The social context of watercolor painting is also important. It was a favored medium for travelers and amateur artists in the 19th century, due to its portability and relative ease of use. But don't let its accessibility fool you; mastering watercolor demands skill. There's an economy of means here, a sense of direct engagement with the subject, that transcends the class associations of the medium. It reminds us that beauty can emerge from humble materials, through skillful manipulation and keen observation.