Study of Fanny Cornforth, asleep on a chaise-longue 1862

This drawing of Fanny Cornforth asleep on a chaise-longue was created by Dante Gabriel Rossetti in the 19th Century using graphite pencil on paper. The method of working is evident in the final image, with a visible network of hatched lines that build up tone and volume. With pencil on paper, Rossetti was able to quickly and effectively create a convincing study of the sitter, and to suggest the soft textures of her dress and the chaise-longue. This drawing serves as a reminder of the labor involved in the production of images. While it may appear effortless, the artist's hand and skill are evident in every line. The drawing also speaks to the social context of the time, as it depicts a working-class woman, Fanny Cornforth, who served as a model and muse for Rossetti. The study serves as a valuable insight into the creative process and the social dynamics of the art world. Paying attention to materials, making, and context allows us to move beyond the traditional art historical emphasis on composition and iconography.