Selbstbildnis des Künstlers im Dreiviertelprofil nach links 

Karl Sandhaas created this self-portrait in the first half of the 19th century using graphite on paper. Graphite, though unassuming, is a powerful material. Its softness allows for a range of delicate marks, from barely-there lines to deep shadows. Look closely at the way Sandhaas has used these qualities to define the contours of his face and the fall of light on his clothing. Notice the almost obsessive attention to detail in the rendering of his hair. The repetitive, controlled strokes of the graphite suggest a deliberate and time-consuming process. This speaks to the dedicated labor required for even a seemingly simple drawing like this. The choice of graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material, also highlights the accessibility of drawing as a means of artistic expression in the 19th century. By understanding the materials and processes behind this self-portrait, we can appreciate the artist's skill and the broader social context in which it was made.