Profile (from McGuire Scrapbook) 1804 - 1868

This drawing, 'Profile' by Shepard Alonzo Mount, is a glimpse into 19th-century artistic practice. It's made with graphite on paper, humble materials that allow for quick, expressive marks. Looking closely, you can see the texture of the paper itself influencing the graphite, creating a slightly rough and spontaneous feel. The artist’s hand is evident in the varying pressure and direction of the lines. It captures fleeting moments, perhaps studies of figures, or landscapes, sketched directly from life. There is very little craft involved in creating this sketch, which is the point. Instead, it shows the essential process of making - from hand to paper. These types of sketches are more about the labor of representation than about a highly finished art object. It suggests a work ethic rooted in careful observation and an appreciation for everyday life. This artwork blurs the boundaries between fine art and the craft of drawing, inviting us to appreciate the beauty in simplicity.