Drei Damen in kostbaren Kostümen 1820

Ludwig Emil Grimm drew these Three Ladies in Precious Costumes with graphite on paper sometime before 1863. Notice how the graphite gives the ladies an ethereal quality, as if they might float away. Graphite, of course, is pure carbon, the very stuff of life, but also the stuff of industry. Think of the sooty mills of the 19th century. The use of graphite, then, subtly underscores the economic engine that would have made such extravagant costumes possible. Consider the immense labour involved in producing these garments. The mining of precious materials, the weaving of fabric, the cutting and sewing and embroidery – each of these steps depended on skilled workers. The light touch of Grimm’s drawing belies the material reality of production and consumption. These processes are often overlooked in favour of the artist’s hand, but understanding the social and economic context of materials and making is essential to a full appreciation of the art.