Beeld van slapend kind, liggend op een kussen c. 1657 - 1658

Moses ter Borch created this delicate image of a sleeping child on a pillow with pen in grey ink and brush in grey wash. Ter Borch’s choice of ink and wash is interesting; they allow for soft, subtle gradations of tone, perfect for capturing the vulnerability of a sleeping infant. The pen work gives definition to the body and the folds in the fabric, while the wash softens the contours and adds depth. The choice of these materials speaks to a wider social issue, as the traditional fine arts were very often defined through expensive and valued materials. The deliberate choice of everyday materials by the artist, and the amount of work involved in the production process, elevate the simple scene into a higher form of art and expression. By looking closely at the materials and methods used, we can appreciate how ter Borch challenges the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.