Wagenwiel 1848 - 1888

Anton Mauve made this sketch of a wagon wheel, likely sometime in the late 19th century, using graphite on paper. It's a humble pairing of materials, but deceptively rich in associations. The marks are quick and economical, yet they capture the essence of the wheel's form and function. Notice how Mauve uses the subtle gradations of graphite to suggest the wheel's roundness, its weight, and its relationship to the ground. A wheel is a powerful emblem of human ingenuity; it speaks of trade and mobility, but also of labor and production. The Industrial Revolution was in full swing during Mauve's time, and the humble wagon wheel, crafted by skilled hands, stood in contrast to the rise of mechanized production. Mauve invites us to consider the value of traditional skills and materials in a rapidly changing world. It’s a reminder that even the simplest objects can carry profound cultural significance.