Portret van Henriëtte Haitsma Mulier 1924

Simon Moulijn drew this portrait of Henriëtte Haitsma Mulier in 1924, using graphite on paper. Graphite, like charcoal and chalk, requires a direct, unmediated approach; what you see is the result of hand pressure and control. Here, Moulijn has achieved an extraordinary result. Note the sensitive modeling of the face, which seems almost to glow from within. It's achieved through careful and considered work, building up a complex system of hatching. Look at the way the strokes follow the planes of her dress and the light that falls across the fabric. Graphite is of course a cheap material, yet the image gives the impression of something precious, carefully wrought. In fact, the very modesty of means emphasizes the intensity of labor involved in creating such a detailed image. It is this investment of time and skill that elevates the drawing, asking us to reconsider our expectations of both portraiture and the art of drawing itself.