Portret van mevrouw Anna Cornelia Veth-Giltay 1874 - 1925

Jan Veth created this portrait of Anna Cornelia Veth-Giltay using graphite on paper. The apparent simplicity of the materials is deceiving. Graphite, though commonplace now, was once a precious commodity, mined and traded. Here, it’s been applied with an economy of line, capturing the likeness of the sitter, and is offset by delicate washes of ink or watercolor which frame the central image, activating the paper’s surface with subtle tones and textures. The artist’s hand is evident in the controlled application of these media. The processes involved demanded skill and patience, and the immediacy of the sketch is balanced by the care taken in its execution. The work's muted tones and soft lines invite contemplation, reflecting the intimate and careful labor involved in its creation. Looking closely at the materials and processes used by Veth gives us insight into the social and cultural values attached to both the sitter and the practice of portraiture itself. It underscores the importance of considering the labor and materials involved in creating what might initially appear to be a simple sketch.