En tyrekalv 1915

Theodor Philipsen made this little drawing, *En tyrekalv*, with ink on paper. Philipsen is working something out here, like a sculptor making a maquette, or a choreographer blocking out steps. The hatch marks build the form of the calf in short, quick strokes, that give the impression of the animal’s soft down. See how he suggests the wetness of the ground with a few horizontal flicks. The pressure and speed of the pen are laid bare, as Philipsen works towards an image, rather than creating one. Look closely at the way Philipsen renders the rear of the calf using slightly longer strokes, which creates a sense of depth and roundness. It’s a simple mark, but it tells us so much about the three-dimensionality of the subject. It reminds me a little of the work of Manet, who also used a similar economy of mark-making to create the impression of light and form. Like all great art, it's more of a beginning than an end.