Portret van Pier Pander Possibly 1895

This portrait of Pier Pander was drawn by Ferdinand Hart Nibbrig, using red chalk on paper. The texture of the drawing is immediately apparent; you can see the individual strokes that define the sitter’s features and clothing. The artist uses hatching to create subtle gradations of tone, adding depth to the image. This technique is not just about replicating reality; it is about revealing it through labor. The drawing would have required careful observation and meticulous execution, hours of work. The red chalk lends warmth to the portrait, creating an intimate feel. The artist has deliberately left traces of the making process visible, reminding us of the artist's skill and labor in bringing the image into being. Paying attention to materials, making, and context gives us a deeper appreciation of the artwork, and allows us to challenge the division between fine art and craft.