Who painted Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains?

Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains was painted by John William Casilear in 1856.

Where can I see Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains?

Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains?

Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains?

Museum-quality prints of Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains

John William Casilear , 1856

Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist John William Casilear. It dates from 1856 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in graphite: Birch boughs; lower right in graphite: Catskill Mountains, July 29th 1856; lower right in graphite by unknown hand: A; upper left verso in graphite by unknown hand: TL. 6558.A-94; lower center verso in graphite by unknown hand: 18x22

About this work

This drawing shows a few birch branches hanging over rocky ground.

This drawing shows a few birch branches hanging over rocky ground. The pencil lines are light but clear. You can see the rough bark and the way the branches bend.

John William Casilear made this in 1856. He used graphite on thick paper. It looks simple but feels real. He often drew outdoors, which wasn’t common back then.

It reminds me of Winslow Homer’s sketches. Look for them at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Overview

Birch Boughs, Catskill Mountains is a graphite drawing on wove paper created by John William Casilear in 1856.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts birch branches suspended over rocky terrain, rendered in light yet distinct graphite lines that capture the texture of the bark and the gentle curvature of the branches.

Technique & Style

Casilear's use of graphite on thick paper achieves a straightforward yet lifelike representation, characteristic of his outdoor drawing practice, which was unconventional for its time.

Context

Casilear's work shares affinities with the sketches of Winslow Homer, also known for his outdoor drawing practices, examples of which can be found at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.