Female nude 

Alphonse Mucha made this drawing of a female nude using graphite on paper. The traditional art materials allow for the creation of delicate lines that capture the contours and volume of the human form. The artist’s skilled handling of the graphite is evident in the subtle gradations of tone and texture, giving the figure a sense of depth and realism. Notice how the artist uses hatching and cross-hatching to build up shadow and create a sense of three-dimensionality. The figure's pose and expression, as well as the handling of light and shadow, create a contemplative mood. The sketchlike quality of the drawing shows the artist's working process, and the way he built up the image through careful observation and mark-making. By focusing on the artist's process and the material qualities of the drawing, we gain a deeper appreciation for the work as a whole. This emphasis challenges traditional notions of fine art by highlighting the importance of craft and skill in creating a powerful and evocative image.