Ilende kvinde, halvfigur 1666

This drawing of a weeping woman was created by Heinrich Dittmers in the 17th century, using chalk and watercolor on paper. Look closely and you can see how Dittmers built up the image through layers of delicate strokes. This wasn't just about depicting a scene; it was about showcasing his technical skill. During this period, artistic training emphasized a mastery of materials and process. The careful blending of chalk and watercolor, the subtle gradations of tone – these were all marks of a well-honed craft. Consider the paper itself, likely handmade and precious. The materials and labor involved would have signaled the patron’s wealth, and artistic production often operated within strict social hierarchies. This wasn't mass production; it was the skilled application of handcraft, valued for its rarity and refinement. The way this drawing was made, therefore, reflects a whole world of social and economic relations.