Herdsman Crossing a River 

Francesco Casanova made this drawing, Herdsman Crossing a River, with pen and brown ink, and wash on paper. While seemingly straightforward, the labor implied in this drawing quietly speaks to shifts in 18th century economies. Look closely, and you’ll see that Casanova isn’t just representing a picturesque scene. Instead, he's capturing the reality of agricultural life, and hinting at the systems of labor involved. The very act of drawing here is labor, of course. Note the repetitive, almost mechanical strokes he uses to build up tonal depth in the landscape. The quick, efficient lines used to depict the figures and animals suggest a practiced hand, someone familiar with the demands of production. This isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about reflecting the rhythm of work itself. The choice of pen and ink, a relatively accessible and reproducible medium, further connects the drawing to broader social and economic currents. So, next time you encounter a seemingly simple landscape, consider the hands that made it.