Alexander de Grote loopt niet mee tijdens de Olympische Spelen c. 1655 - 1665

Leonaert Bramer made this drawing, "Alexander de Grote loopt niet mee tijdens de Olympische Spelen," with pen in grey ink and grey wash. Bramer's choice of pen and ink emphasizes line and form, creating a sense of depth and movement with delicate strokes. The use of grey wash adds subtle shading, enhancing the overall composition. It's a traditional art material but Bramer's expressive application lends a modern feel. The drawing feels unfinished, like a snapshot of a fleeting moment, and the quick sketch shows that the artist likely witnessed the event and wanted to remember it. Pen and ink allowed the artist to record a lot of detail very quickly. By focusing on these elements, Bramer elevates the artwork beyond a mere depiction of an event, inviting us to appreciate the social context and the act of witnessing history through the artist's eyes. The drawing reminds us that art is not just about the subject matter, but also about the skilled traditions, the artistic techniques, and the social issues.