Artwork

View through the Trees at Tivoli [recto]

View through the Trees at Tivoli [recto], by Jasper Francis Cropsey, graphite, 1848
View through the Trees at Tivoli [recto], by Jasper Francis Cropsey, graphite, 1848

View through the Trees at Tivoli [recto] is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist Jasper Francis Cropsey. It dates from 1848 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

View through the Trees at Tivoli is a drawing by Jasper Francis Cropsey, created in 1848 using graphite and brown wash on brown paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a hillside scene with trees and buildings, with the trees partially obscuring the structures behind them. The artist included notes on the color palette, indicating an emphasis on capturing the natural atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Executed in a loose and rapid style, the drawing features quick lines and selective use of brown wash to add depth. The brown paper provides a muted base tone, contributing to the overall subdued color scheme.

Context

This work reflects the artist's interest in capturing natural scenery, a characteristic of Romanticism, which often emphasized the emotional and expressive qualities of the natural world.

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.