Blyantsstudie af de to kvinder fra bladets recto 1810 - 1873

Wilhelm Marstrand made this pencil study of two women. The drawing shows the delicate balance between intention and improvisation, so central to the creative process. The artist’s hand is evident in the varying pressure of the pencil on the page, creating a range of light and shadow that suggests depth and volume. Marstrand clearly had a mastery of the medium, able to quickly capture the likeness and character of his subjects with just a few strokes. There is a casualness to the sketch, with the swiftly drawn lines giving an impression of spontaneity. Yet the skill lies in knowing where to leave the lines out, giving us just enough information to fill in the gaps. Ultimately, this drawing reminds us that even the simplest of materials can be used to create something beautiful and meaningful, as long as the artist has a clear vision and the skill to execute it.