Spijsuitdeling aan pelgrims en bedelaars bij een kloosterpoort 1636

Andries Both made this drawing, *Spijsuitdeling aan pelgrims en bedelaars bij een kloosterpoort*, using graphite on paper. The relative ease of graphite, as a readily available material, makes possible the immediacy of the scene, yet the artist's close observation of the people, the architectural setting, and the arrangement of these elements is what truly animates the image. The marks are light and fluid, but with enough variation in pressure to define the figures and forms. This work is also interesting as a record of social hierarchy and daily life. The act of distributing food to pilgrims and beggars at a monastery gate is a window onto labor, class, and charitable acts. Through the simple, yet refined strokes of graphite, Both captures a moment that speaks volumes about the cultural values of the time.