Studie van twee kippen 1865 - 1878

Jules Laurens made this study of two chickens with graphite on paper. In looking at these birds, bent and pecking, you might ask yourself why an artist would depict such a mundane subject. Yet, the beauty here lies in the skillful rendering. Notice how Laurens uses the graphite to mimic the texture of the chicken's feathers, or the weight and density of their bodies. This isn't merely a sketch; it's a deep dive into the physicality of these creatures. Consider too, the context. Chickens, though commonplace, are a source of labor and sustenance. Laurens elevates them through close observation. The act of drawing itself requires a kind of labor. By taking the time to meticulously capture these animals, Laurens asks us to reconsider the value we place on everyday subjects, blurring the lines between fine art and the world around us.