Study for the Portrait of Louis-François Bertin 1766 - 1841

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres created this preparatory drawing for a portrait of Louis-François Bertin, using graphite on paper. The apparent simplicity of graphite belies its connection to industrial processes. Graphite is a mineral, but the smooth, consistent lines we see here result from careful refinement and manufacturing. The pencil itself, a relatively new invention at the time, speaks to the increasing accessibility of art materials, facilitated by mass production. Ingres's masterful handling of the medium elevates this study beyond a mere sketch. The subtle gradations, the way he captures the texture of Bertin's clothing, the weight of his presence – all demonstrate a deep understanding of the material's potential. The careful blending and layering give the drawing a tactile quality, inviting us to consider the hand that guided the graphite across the page. Even in this study, we see the influence of industrialization on artistic practice, blurring the lines between traditional techniques and the modern world.