Design for a Tomb 1700 - 1773

This drawing for a tomb was made by Pietro Bracci, likely with graphite or chalk for the main forms, and ink and wash to create depth and shadow. As a design on paper, it is far removed from the labor-intensive quarrying, carving, and polishing of stone, processes through which a monument would come into being. In fact, this tomb would have required a whole range of skilled makers. Each would have brought their expertise and experience, a vital component of the overall effect, yet rendered anonymous in the finished product. Bracci's design makes reference to all of these contributions, though we only know the name of the artist. Ultimately, we can consider how the division of creative labor—between the conceptual work of design and the physical work of production—creates a hierarchy of value. Drawings like this one are a reminder of the many hands required to bring even the simplest designs to life.