Precipice
1909
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1909
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
Precipice is a 1909 by Anders Zorn, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.
This sketch shows a lone figure standing on a narrow ledge, arms outstretched for balance. Behind them, jagged lines suggest a steep drop-off, while wild, tangled strokes fill the rest of the space. The person’s body is simple but clear, with just enough shading to show muscle and posture. The artist used quick, uneven lines to create movement—like wind or panic—around the figure. The background feels unstable, almost like the person might slip at any moment. Try looking up *chiaroscuro* next to see how light and shadow create drama in art.
