Zo d'Axa 

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made this drawing of Zo d'Axa using ink on paper. The simple materials belie a powerful directness of expression, capturing the subject's likeness with remarkable economy. Steinlen's choice of ink allows for both bold outlines and delicate shading, creating depth and texture with just a few strokes. The quality of the line is crucial here; it varies in thickness and intensity, conveying a sense of spontaneity. The absorbent nature of the paper also plays a role, allowing the ink to bleed slightly and creating subtle tonal variations. Drawings like this one were quick and relatively inexpensive to produce, and played an important part in the radical political movements of the late 19th century. They could be reproduced easily in newspapers and pamphlets, helping to spread revolutionary ideas widely and cheaply. This artwork reminds us that even the simplest of materials can be used to challenge power structures and contribute to social change.