Sweepers 1888

This ink drawing, simply titled “Sweepers”, was made by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen. It portrays a group of workers wielding their tools of the trade: large, hand-made brooms. The artist used relatively simple materials – paper and ink – to create this drawing. It’s the kind of artwork that would have been made relatively quickly. But it is clear that a deep understanding of materials and their use went into it. The varying thicknesses and densities of the ink lines convey both form and texture. And despite the monochromatic nature of the work, the artist has created a range of tones that suggest the time of day. The subject matter also reflects the artist’s acute awareness of social context. He highlights the labor and class issues prevalent in urban environments. The sweeper’s occupation is physically demanding, and essential to urban life. Steinlen draws attention to the individuals who perform this vital, yet often overlooked, work. Through his choice of materials, techniques, and subject matter, Steinlen elevates the status of craft and labor within the realm of fine art.