Date-drying yard at Siwa
1897
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1897
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This sketch shows a rocky hillside with a small group of buildings clinging to its side. People are scattered around—some sitting, others walking—near what looks like a long, narrow drying area. The artist used quick, dark lines to show shadows and texture, especially on the cliffs and walls. The drawing was made by someone who traveled to record real places. The notes on the paper say it’s from the Royal Geographical Society, meaning it was likely used for study or exploration. Look up cross-hatching to see how artists build shading with lines like these.
