Artwork

House Surrounded by Vegetation

House Surrounded by Vegetation, by Paul Cezanne, graphite, 1890
House Surrounded by Vegetation, by Paul Cezanne, graphite, 1890

House Surrounded by Vegetation is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

House Surrounded by Vegetation is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by Paul Cezanne in 1890. The work depicts a simple, rustic house with a sloped roof nestled among foliage.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a humble, secluded dwelling enveloped by natural surroundings, suggesting a focus on the interplay between architecture and nature. The loose execution implies the work may serve as a preliminary study for a larger piece.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, quick lines, the drawing features soft shadows and varying graphite densities, from light to heavy. The wove paper's slight texture is discernible, and the page exhibits a yellowish patina.

History & Provenance

Created in 1890, specific provenance details are not provided, though its style aligns with Cezanne's period explorations.

Context

This drawing reflects late 19th-century artistic tendencies, notably the emphasis on capturing light and natural environments. It precedes the full bloom of Impressionism, with which Cezanne's later work would be more closely associated.

Legacy

While not a finished piece, the drawing demonstrates Cezanne's exploratory approach to composition and natural light, influencing subsequent artistic movements in their treatment of outdoor settings.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Cezanne

Artist

Paul Cezanne

Paul Cézanne was born on January 19, 1839, in Aix-en-Provence, the son of a hatter turned wealthy banker.

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