Kop en bek van een leeuw 1874

George Clausen sketched this study of a lion’s head and mouth using graphite on paper. Clausen used light and dark shading to create the texture of the lion's face, and to give volume to the lion's form. Graphite, essentially processed carbon, is commonly combined with clay to vary its hardness. Marks left on paper depend on the grade of graphite used and the pressure applied. Here, he used a light touch. The artist layered a series of fine lines to create subtle gradations of tone to depict the animal's form, while harder, more deliberate lines define the lion’s features, like the teeth and mane. The marks left on the page are delicate and precise. The quick, preliminary nature of the sketch is evidence of the artist's process. The medium affords an immediate translation of the artist’s vision, capturing the initial spark of an idea, and giving form to the artist's creativity. It’s a reminder that the art object is so much more than the finished product, and reflects the hand of the artist.