View of Treysa 1884

Peter Becker rendered this delicate view of Treysa with graphite on paper in 1869. Looking closely, you’ll notice an incredible amount of detail achieved through the medium of graphite. The artist uses the qualities of the material to give volume and depth to the depicted scene. Becker coaxes a wide range of values from the graphite, creating darker tones through layering and building up the material to create a dense concentration of graphite particles that reflect less light. The drawing appears to be based on direct observation, each mark and line made by hand through patient labor. The subtle variations in line weight and texture gives life to the architecture and natural elements, from the flowing water to the billowing clouds. By focusing on the relationship between labor, material, and place, we can appreciate the quiet artistry of Becker’s drawing. It challenges our preconceptions about the relationship between fine art and craft.