Aanbidding door de herders Possibly 1661

Moses ter Borch created this drawing, 'Adoration of the Shepherds,' using pen in gray ink and gray wash. Ter Borch's choice of materials is significant. Pen and ink wash is a relatively immediate medium, allowing for the rapid capturing of light, shadow, and form. The fluid nature of the wash creates soft gradations and atmospheric effects, drawing us into the scene. The ink appears almost translucent, and imbues the artwork with an ethereal quality. It’s fascinating that ter Borch opted for this fluid technique for such a traditional, reverential subject. Nativity scenes, often depicted through more traditional forms of painting, can be very laborious. But here, it is represented in a way that emphasizes the humble nature of the event. It allows us to focus on the humanity of the figures, reinforcing the idea that the divine can be found in the everyday. So, next time you encounter a pen and ink wash drawing, consider the artist's intention, the possibilities of the materials, and the social context in which the work was created. It’s a reminder that art is not just about the subject matter, but also about the choices artists make and the stories they tell through their craft.