Baldakijn 1857 - 1859

This delicate sketch of a Baldakijn was made by Pierre Cuypers. He captured the design using graphite on paper. Cuypers was a master of the Gothic Revival style, which he expressed not only in architecture, but in furniture and decorative arts as well. In this sketch, you can see how he used graphite to build up tonal layers, creating depth and shadow with simple cross-hatching. The bare paper becomes a bright void, emphasizing the ornate details of the baldachin structure. Cuypers had a clear interest in the material qualities of the Gothic style, and how it could be adapted to modern manufacturing techniques and social contexts. This drawing represents the intellectual labor that underpins all design, and serves as a reminder that even the most elaborate creations begin with a simple mark on paper. By focusing on the materials, the making process, and the social context, we can better understand the full meaning of Cuypers' artistic contribution.