Étude D’homme Nu c. 1900

Henri Matisse made this nude study using graphite on paper. It's a simple, direct method – graphite, made of carbon, is mined from the earth, processed into a drawing implement, and then applied to paper, made from plant fibers. But don't mistake simplicity for a lack of sophistication. The success of a drawing like this relies on the artist's skill and the efficiency of mark-making, to quickly capture the essence of a pose. The hand moves fast, the gaze moves faster, and the build-up of marks captures the complexity of form. Matisse's technique is evident in the variation of line weight, the direction of strokes and the use of shading to create depth and volume. It's a clear example of how a readily available material, combined with practiced skill, can result in an image that is much more than the sum of its parts. Ultimately, this emphasis on process and technique is what elevates this drawing beyond a simple sketch.