Weibliche Bildnisstudie zur ‘Ausfahrt des Kaiserpaares nach einer schweren Krankheit des Kaisers Franz I.’ before 1828

Johann Peter Krafft made this study of a woman’s head with graphite on paper, likely in the early 19th century. The artist’s hand is evident in every delicate stroke, carefully building tone and texture. But what really interests me is the economic context of this type of work. Paper became widely available, and relatively cheap, with the rise of industrial production in the late 1700s. Graphite too, mined in the Lake District of England, was processed and encased in wood— the pencil a relatively new invention at the time. So, while the artist's skill is undeniable, this drawing also reflects broader social changes. The increased availability of drawing materials meant that more people could engage in artistic practice, even if only for personal expression or preliminary studies like this one. Ultimately, this ease of access democratizes art-making, challenging traditional notions of artistic training and production. In appreciating this seemingly simple drawing, we are also acknowledging the impact of industrialization on artistic practice and the changing relationship between art, labor, and accessibility.