Brustbild einer junge Römerin im Profil nach rechts mit einer Perlenschnur um den Hals 

Theodor Pelissier made this portrait of a young Roman woman using graphite or charcoal, likely on paper. The soft, powdery quality of the medium lends itself well to capturing the delicate features and smooth skin of the sitter. Look closely, and you'll see how Pelissier used subtle gradations of tone to create a sense of volume and depth. This was achieved by layering the medium, building up areas of shadow and highlight. Notice the details, such as the pearls around her neck, which were rendered with precision. The paper itself is a crucial element. Its texture and color influence the appearance of the drawing, creating a warm tone that enhances the portrait's overall effect. The choice of such accessible materials reflects a wider cultural shift in the 19th century, when drawing became increasingly popular as a form of artistic expression. So, next time you encounter a work like this, remember to look closely at the materials, and the making process that brought it into being.