Liegende Dogge, den Kopf auf den Boden gelegt 

This depiction of a resting dog was created with watercolor on paper by Conrad Gesner, who was born in 1764. Gesner's choice of watercolor is telling. It’s a medium known for its fluidity and transparency, allowing for the depiction of light and shadow with remarkable sensitivity, and the artist uses it to bring out the texture of the dog’s fur. The way Gesner applies the watercolor suggests a direct and unmediated engagement with his subject; he worked quickly, capturing the essence of the animal's form and posture. The immediacy of the medium also reflects the socio-economic conditions of the time, when artists often relied on readily available materials and techniques. In choosing watercolor, Gesner aligned himself with a tradition of direct observation and skillful execution, rather than labor-intensive processes often associated with the art world. This artwork reminds us that even seemingly simple materials and processes can yield profound artistic results, challenging traditional hierarchies between art and craft.