Artwork

Rooftops, St. Cloud

Rooftops, St. Cloud, by Thomas Anshutz, graphite, 1882
Rooftops, St. Cloud, by Thomas Anshutz, graphite, 1882

Rooftops, St. Cloud is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Thomas Anshutz. It dates from 1882 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Rooftops, St.

About this work

Overview

Rooftops, St. Cloud is a watercolor drawing over graphite on wove paper, executed by Thomas Anshutz in 1882. The work depicts a serene street scene in St. Cloud.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a quiet street corner with old buildings, distinctive red-tiled roofs, and everyday details: two orange pots on a stone wall, a leaning tree with lush foliage, and a partially hidden window. These elements convey a sense of everyday tranquility.

Technique & Style

Anshutz employed watercolor to achieve soft, blended colors, evoking the spontaneity of a quick sketch. The lighting is rendered in a naturalistic manner, creating an immediate and realistic visual effect.

History & Provenance

Created in 1882, specific provenance details are not provided in the available information.

Context

While stylistically distinct, the emphasis on capturing natural light and everyday scenes situates Rooftops, St. Cloud within the broader artistic currents of its time, notably sharing observational aspects with Impressionist practices.

Legacy

The artwork's legacy is not explicitly detailed in the provided information, though its style and subject matter may appeal to viewers familiar with Impressionist aesthetics.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Thomas Anshutz

Artist

Thomas Anshutz

American, Newport, Kentucky 1851–1912 Fort Washington, Pennsylvania

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.