Paris og de tre gudinder 1810 - 1873

Wilhelm Marstrand created this sketch, "Paris og de tre gudinder," using pen and brown ink on paper. The artist's hand is evident in the quick, yet confident strokes that define the figures and landscape. The pen's nib, guided by Marstrand, creates lines that vary in thickness, adding depth and shadow. Paper, a common and affordable material, serves as a blank canvas for his artistic vision. The ink, rich in pigment, allows for a range of tonal values, from light washes to dark accents. Note how the ease and speed of sketching allowed Marstrand to explore classical subject matter, imbuing it with a sense of spontaneity. The ready availability, and relatively low cost of pen, ink and paper meant that sketching was a democratic practice, accessible to many artists of his time. Marstrand’s choice of materials and techniques reflects a practical approach, valuing efficiency and expression. This challenges any perceived hierarchy between sketching and more elaborate, finished works.