Figures 1624 - 1663

This quick sketch of figures was made by Francesco Allegrini in the 17th century with pen and brown ink on paper. The artist has deftly manipulated the materials to create depth and movement with such simple tools. The thinness of the ink allows light to pass through, giving the drawing an airy quality, while the brown hue adds warmth and richness. The artist's hand is evident in the varied line weights, a product of the pressure applied to the pen as it moves across the paper. This element of 'touch' makes the drawing so intimate. Consider the labor involved in producing the ink and preparing the paper – skilled trades in their own right. By engaging in such a direct, unmediated process, Allegrini bypasses the grandiosity often associated with fine art, bringing a sense of immediacy to his work. The beauty of this drawing resides not only in its subject matter, but also in the way it celebrates the inherent qualities of its humble materials. It reminds us that artmaking is always a dialogue between the artist, their tools, and the world around them.