Che, yo, ou flute chinoise, et instrument chinois dont on ign[…] before 1828

Pierre Félix van Doren rendered this study of Chinese musical instruments with graphite on paper. A traditional and accessible medium, the graphite allowed for the creation of fine lines and intricate details, perfectly suited for the delicate forms of the instruments. The artist paid great attention to the textures and shapes, illustrating the smooth surfaces of the flutes, the taut strings of the zither-like instrument, and the rounded body of the lute. The cross-hatching shading technique gives the drawing a sense of depth and volume. Van Doren captured not just the appearance of the instruments, but the social and cultural significance that they carried, offering a glimpse into the sounds and traditions of a distant land. This drawing goes beyond mere representation, inviting us to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship embedded in these musical objects.