H.V. Bissen 1841

This drawing, H.V. Bissen, was made by Christen Købke using graphite on paper. The fineness of line achieved with graphite allows for subtle gradations of tone, building up the image through careful layering. The paper provides a slightly textured surface, which catches the graphite and adds to the visual richness of the drawing. The artist’s hand is very evident in this portrait of a fellow artist, Bissen. The controlled strokes and attention to detail speak to a skilled artisan dedicated to their craft. This contrasts with the rise of industrialization during the same period, where the focus shifted from individual skill to mass production. The act of drawing, therefore, becomes a deliberate assertion of human creativity in a rapidly changing world. Looking at this drawing reminds us of the importance of valuing the labour and skill involved in creating art, and it bridges the gap between fine art and craft.