A Bizarre Rock Formation 

Alphonse Mandevare made this drawing of a rock formation in the early 19th century with graphite on paper. It is a study, seemingly simple and direct, but the hatching and cross-hatching create a layered effect. The artist used the qualities of graphite to his advantage; with the side of the implement for smooth shading, and the point for sharper definition. A lot of labor went into this drawing, especially when you consider that the artist had to render such a complex form with only a pencil. The artist has given much attention to the texture of the stone surface: smooth, rough, and jagged. The sharp angles and crevices of the rocks are emphasized through the way the artist builds up the light and shadow, creating a three-dimensional effect. Paying attention to the materials and processes gives us a deeper appreciation for how the artist created the artwork.