Strohschneider (Straw Cutter)
1775
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1775
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a man carrying a large, awkward bundle of straw on his back. He’s dressed in a simple jacket, knee breeches, and a wide-brimmed hat, walking with one hand on his hip. The straw sags unevenly, and his shoes look worn. The title below calls him a "Straw Cutter," a job that was common but rarely shown in art. The lines are precise, capturing the weight of his load and the effort in his stance. Look up etching to see how artists like Quirin Mark used this technique to create sharp, detailed prints.
