Guildford c. 1877

Hendrik Pieter Koekkoek rendered this drawing of Guildford with graphite on paper. The choice of graphite as a medium offers insight into the artwork's essence; it's a readily available material, aligning with the rising industrial production of pencils. Graphite's inherent qualities, from its smoothness to its capacity for tonal variation, allow for a directness of expression. The paper, too, bears the marks of its own making, and of time. Notice the delicate gradations of tone, and the textured strokes capturing the forms of the trees. In Koekkoek’s time, art was increasingly integrated into the market economy, making art more accessible to broader audiences. Graphite, with its accessibility, becomes a tool for both professional artists and amateur sketchers alike. This democratic spirit invites us to consider the social context in which art is created and consumed. So, the next time you see a simple drawing, remember that the materials, the making, and the context all matter.