River God with an Eagle 

Jan Lievens made this drawing, River God with an Eagle, using pen and brown ink on paper. The earthy sepia tone of the ink has a quality of immediacy, as though this mythological scene has been captured in a fleeting moment. Look closely and you'll see the artist's hand in the repeated strokes, creating a cross-hatching effect. The controlled, precise lines build up the figures' forms, giving them depth. The flowing lines mimic the fluidity of water and the texture of the eagle's feathers. The technique speaks of tradition, reminiscent of the detailed drawings and prints that were circulating in Europe at this time. Lievens was working during a period of significant social change and artistic innovation. The rise of print culture meant the circulation of images, and the development of personal style was critical for an artist to stand out. The labor and time invested in creating such an image, as well as the skill required, would have been valued. When we appreciate the skill and process behind this drawing, we start to move beyond the divide between fine art and craft. The materials, techniques, and context give the artwork its full meaning.