Rafaël en de Fornarina 1807 - 1856

Paul Delaroche rendered this drawing, "Rafaël en de Fornarina," with pen and brown ink, a technique that allows for both swift execution and detailed articulation. The choice of medium speaks to the artist's academic training, rooted in traditional methods. The brown ink, applied with varying pressure, creates a range of tonal values. The cross-hatching and dense linework give form to figures and architectural elements, imbuing the scene with dramatic intensity. The rapid, almost frenetic application of ink suggests an urgency and energy, capturing the moment of artistic inspiration. Delaroche’s academic approach is clear here. He is interested in historical narratives, in the drama and character, more than the making. He would have considered the act of drawing to be a means to an end. However, by taking time to consider the materials, we can reflect on the skills required to produce a drawing like this, and how they have been esteemed over time.