En scene på Mont Salève, Schweiz, efter et drikkelag 1777 - 1778

Jens Juel captured this scene on Mont Salève in Switzerland after a drinking session, using graphite and grey wash on paper. The immediacy of the drawing reflects the spontaneity of the moment, a quick record rather than a polished presentation piece. Look closely, and you'll see how the graphite lines define the figures, while the grey wash adds depth and volume, creating a sense of light and shadow that emphasizes their languid poses. The artist's hand is evident in every stroke, from the delicate rendering of facial features to the broad washes that suggest the folds of clothing. It's fascinating to consider the social context of this work. Juel likely made it for his own amusement, or that of his circle. It shows an informal side of 18th-century life. By focusing on the materials and the making, we gain insight into the artist's process and the social world in which this drawing was created.