C.E. Andersen 1811 - 1879

Peter Gemzøe created this portrait of C.E. Andersen using graphite on paper. Graphite, a form of carbon, lends itself to capturing subtle gradations and textures. The technique used is clearly drawing, but it is important to recognize how this intersects with industrialization. The 19th-century saw the advent of mass-produced pencils, encasing graphite in wood for ease of use and widespread availability. This portrait, therefore, isn't just an act of artistic skill, but also reflects the democratization of art materials. The precision of the drawing, the meticulous rendering of the sitter's features and clothing, is labor-intensive. But this labor is made possible by readily available materials. The image also subtly speaks to class, in the attention given to Andersen's clothing and grooming. Paying attention to materials, making, and context helps us appreciate the full meaning of the artwork. The drawing challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.