Artwork

Cathedral in a Landscape

Cathedral in a Landscape, by Vincenzo dal Re, ink, 1722
Cathedral in a Landscape, by Vincenzo dal Re, ink, 1722

Cathedral in a Landscape is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Vincenzo dal Re. It dates from 1722 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Cathedral in a Landscape is a drawing executed in 1722 by the Italian artist Vincenzo dal Re. Rendered on laid paper, the work combines pen and brown ink with a gray wash applied over a graphite underdrawing, presenting a modestly detailed view of an architectural structure within a natural setting.

Technique & Style

Dal Re employed a layered approach: an initial graphite sketch establishes the composition, followed by precise pen lines in brown ink that define the cathedral’s form. A subtle gray wash adds atmospheric depth, softening the surrounding landscape while preserving the drawing’s linear clarity.

History & Provenance

Created in the early eighteenth century, the drawing reflects dal Re’s interest in integrating architectural subjects into broader topographical scenes. Its provenance traces back to private collections before entering a museum context, where it serves as an example of the period’s drawing practices.

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.