Silverpoint

Silverpoint is a traditional drawing technique first used by medieval scribes in manuscripts. It was later developed into a fine art medium by early Renaissance artists. Silverpoint involves drawing with a silver stylus on a specially prepared surface, often with a ground of bone ash and gum water. The silver lines oxidize over time to a warm brown or grey color.

History

Silverpoint drawing has been used since the late Gothic/early Renaissance period. It was used extensively by artists like Jan van Eyck, Albrecht Dürer, Leonardo da Vinci, and Rembrandt. The technique was largely replaced by graphite pencils in the 18th century, but it has been revived in the 20th century by artists interested in traditional techniques.

Technique

In silverpoint, a silver stylus is used to draw on a surface prepared with a ground of bone ash and gum water. The ground must have a slightly abrasive surface to draw out tiny particles of silver, which oxidize and darken to create the drawing. The lines produced by silverpoint are extremely fine, and the technique is known for its delicate lines and high level of detail.

Modern use

While silverpoint is no longer a common drawing medium, it is still used by some artists for its unique qualities. It is also studied in art schools for its historical importance. Modern artists using silverpoint include Susan Schwalb and Tom Mazzullo.

See also

• Metalpoint
• List of art techniques

References

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External links

• The Silverpoint Web
• About.com: Drawing and Sketching

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  Portrait Drawing of Dorothea Meyer by Hans Holbein the Younger
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  A stylus from the early Middle Ages, probably European
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  Silverpoint
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  Artist's Wife, Edith Holman Hunt
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  Mozart drawing by Doris Stock, 1789