Projet d'illustration pour Macbeth - les trois sorcières agenouillées 

Luc-Olivier Merson made this illustration for Macbeth using graphite on paper. The work’s gray tones and visible sketch lines, achieved through the directness of the medium, create a sense of immediacy. Graphite, a readily available and relatively inexpensive material, lends itself to quick studies and preparatory sketches. Merson's choice of graphite highlights the significance of the artist's hand and the immediacy of the creative process. The artist's technique, with its emphasis on line work and shading, imbues the scene with drama. The softness of graphite allows for subtle tonal variations, capturing the somber mood of the play. The choice of materials also speaks to the practical considerations of illustration work, balancing artistic expression with the demands of commercial reproduction. By valuing the craft of illustration, we recognize the skill and artistic vision of Merson, moving beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and design.