Die gestörte, aber glücklich wieder errungene Nachtruhe (Der Floh); 17 1862

This is a drawing, "Die gestörte, aber glücklich wieder errungene Nachtruhe (Der Floh)" – or, “The disturbed, but happily regained night's rest (The Flea)” – by Wilhelm Busch. The artist worked with readily available materials – graphite and watercolor on paper – to produce this work. It's an image, of course, but also very much a kind of artifact. The quick strokes of the graphite sketch define the forms, while the delicate washes of color add a touch of depth and character to the scene. The social significance of this piece lies in its approachability. Busch uses the immediacy of drawing, a democratic medium accessible to many, to capture a relatable scene of domestic disturbance. The very act of drawing, with its directness and simplicity, democratizes the art-making process. It's a far cry from the labor-intensive processes of painting or sculpture, making it accessible to a broader audience. Busch embraces this simplicity, inviting viewers to connect with the artwork. This piece blurs the lines between high art and popular culture, and encourages us to appreciate the value of everyday creativity.