Linlithgow Palace Courtyard, West Lothian 

David Roberts created this drawing of Linlithgow Palace Courtyard in West Lothian using graphite and a delicate wash on paper. The architectural detail suggests a process of careful measurement and precise application. The linear quality of the graphite defines the form, and the translucent wash softens the overall appearance of the construction. Roberts has imbued the scene with a sense of space and volume, emphasizing the weight and material presence of the Palace, alluding to the labor involved in its construction. Considering the social and cultural significance of the building, the drawing prompts reflection on the lives of those who inhabited and maintained it. Roberts skillfully uses traditional drawing techniques to engage with the historical context of the Palace. It invites us to consider the broader implications of place, labor, and artistic representation, while challenging conventional notions of artistic hierarchy.