La Croix Rouge 1870

Pierre Puvis de Chavannes created this drawing using graphite or charcoal on paper. The monochromatic nature of the drawing emphasizes the somber mood, focusing on the grim aftermath of conflict. The texture of the paper is visible beneath the shading, with its smoothness allowing for delicate gradations of tone. The cross-hatching used to build up shadows and depth, a time-consuming process, speaks to the artist's dedication to craft. The careful rendering of the figure's drapery and the desolate landscape show a meticulous approach. The grid-like pattern faintly visible beneath the drawing suggests a mechanical or industrial methodology of production and reproduction. The choice of such a readily available and unassuming medium, graphite on paper, is a deliberate one, contrasting with the grand historical themes that Puvis de Chavannes often depicted. The materials serve to underscore the bleak reality of war. Examining the materials, making, and context reveals the powerful emotional depth within this seemingly simple drawing.