Plattegrond en opstand van grafmonument van Theron vlakbij Hercules tempel in oude Agrigento 1778

Louis Mayer made this ink drawing, "Plattegrond en opstand van grafmonument van Theron vlakbij Hercules tempel in oude Agrigento", or "Plan and elevation of Theron's tomb near the Temple of Hercules in ancient Agrigento," at an unknown date. The material itself, ink on paper, speaks to a tradition of architectural rendering. Mayer emphasizes the tomb's geometrical qualities through precise linework. The plan view reveals a series of nested squares, while the elevation presents a stepped structure, suggesting the labor-intensive process of quarrying, transporting, and assembling the stone blocks. However, it's Mayer's own labor that's most evident here. Each line meticulously drawn, reflecting his skill in translating three-dimensional space onto a two-dimensional surface. He draws attention to the craftsmanship required not only to build the monument, but also to document it, emphasizing how the act of recording is itself a form of making. By focusing on the making and materiality inherent in both the tomb and its representation, the drawing invites us to consider the value of human effort, bridging the gap between ancient craftsmanship and Mayer's artistic practice.