Schets van een staande man 1640 - 1660

This sketch of a standing man was created by Martinus Lengele, likely in the mid-17th century. It’s made with graphite on paper, materials that were becoming increasingly available at the time. The use of graphite, a relatively new material then, allowed for subtle gradations of tone and a delicate rendering of form. Lengele’s technique emphasizes line and shadow, giving the figure a sense of volume despite the limited tonal range. The paper itself, likely handmade, has a subtle texture that adds to the drawing's tactile quality. What’s interesting is the sheer unpretentiousness of the materials. This isn't a grand statement in oil paint, but rather an intimate study, quickly made. Drawings like this offer insight into the everyday practice of artists, far from the finished masterpieces they are best known for. They bring us closer to the artist's hand and mind. Appreciating the materials and the making can change our understanding of art history.