Artwork

Rocky Landscape

Rocky Landscape, by Seth Wells Cheney, graphite, 1838
Rocky Landscape, by Seth Wells Cheney, graphite, 1838

Rocky Landscape is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Seth Wells Cheney. It dates from 1838 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Rocky Landscape is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by Seth Wells Cheney around 1838. The work presents a hilly, rocky terrain with a small building and a solitary figure.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a rugged natural landscape, contrasted with a tiny, inconspicuous building and a figure reclined on the ground, potentially exploring the relationship between nature and human presence.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, rapid graphite lines, the sketch conveys a sense of spontaneity. The monochromatic palette and visible smudges, along with faint pencil marks, enhance the piece's sketchy, unfinished appearance.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1838, the drawing's provenance is not detailed here, though it is attributed to Seth Wells Cheney. The worn condition of the paper suggests handling over time.

Artist & collection

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