Old Tree Trunk
1839
graphite
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1839
graphite
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a single, twisted tree trunk rising from the ground. The bark is rough and gnarled, with deep cracks and knots. At the top, the branches split into thin, jagged lines against a pale, empty sky. The artist focused only on the tree’s raw, uneven shape—no leaves or background details. The loose pencil lines make it feel quick and alive, like the tree is growing right before your eyes. If you like this sketchy style, look up Clonney, James Goodwyn for more work.