Drawing of Two Medieval Swords 19th century

Mariano Fortuny Marsal made this drawing of two medieval swords using pencil, pen, and brown wash on paper. What is interesting about this artwork is that it depicts medieval weaponry, objects of extreme craft and high technology. The drawing captures the material presence of these powerful objects through a meticulous approach. The artist's careful rendering emphasizes the weight, sharpness, and metallic sheen of the swords, while the brown wash creates an interesting texture. In doing so, Fortuny engaged with historical traditions of craftsmanship, celebrating the artistry involved in forging these arms, while simultaneously pointing to the violence and social hierarchy that they represent. By focusing on the craftsmanship and the social significance embedded in these tools of combat, Fortuny blurs the line between functional artifact and fine art. This encourages us to think about how objects are made and what they mean beyond their surface appearance, challenging traditional distinctions between craft and art.