Einzelfigur 

Karl Wiener rendered this drawing, called Einzelfigur, in pencil on paper. The inherent qualities of the graphite, its relative softness, allows the artist to shade with tone rather than color. The weight of the medium is in its ability to convey shadow. The artist’s hand is clearly visible through the marks made on the page. The cross-hatching used to shade the jacket and skirt imbues the figure with a sense of volume and depth. The sketch-like quality of the work emphasizes the labor involved in its production. This piece is not just about what is depicted, but also about the act of depiction itself. Wiener is engaging with the history of drawing as a skill, a practice, and a form of labor. It's a testament to the artist's craft, and also a reminder that even the simplest of materials can be used to create profound works of art. By attending to these elements, we can better appreciate Wiener’s creative achievement.