Abklatsch van de krijttekeningen op pagina 15 c. 1884 - 1887

This is a page from a sketchbook by Willem Witsen, made with chalk and paper in the late 19th or early 20th century. The term "Abklatsch" refers to a transfer or rubbing, a process by which an image is indirectly captured. Chalk, typically used for preliminary sketches or studies, is here employed for a reproductive process. The texture of the paper—its weave and weight—directly influences the impression. The delicate transfer reveals the subtle nuances of the chalk, with its inherent fragility and tendency to smudge. This method of reproduction underscores the relationship between labor, material, and artistic expression. The artist's hand is evident not only in the initial drawing but also in the careful act of transfer. It prompts us to consider the value we place on original artworks versus their reproductions. Ultimately, examining the materials and methods encourages us to reconsider traditional hierarchies within art history. It reminds us that the meaning of an artwork lies not only in its final form but also in the processes and decisions that shaped its creation.