Schetsblad met studies van giraffen 1821 - 1891

Guillaume Anne van der Brugghen made this sketch sheet with studies of giraffes in graphite and brown wash on paper. Drawing is an activity that’s often overlooked, yet it’s absolutely fundamental to art and design. Here, the artist uses a readily available material – graphite – to quickly capture the essence of the giraffes' forms. Notice the thin, tentative lines, the light hatching, and how the artist renders the giraffes drinking and in groups. These processes reveal his interest in depicting these animals accurately from life. The use of brown wash adds depth and dimension to the drawing, subtly highlighting the giraffe's skin. There is an immediacy that contrasts with the imposing nature of the subject. The ease with which the artist makes these studies belies the skill and practice behind the work. The artist’s choice of humble materials emphasizes the value of process in understanding this work, while also expanding the boundaries of traditional art history.