Le Pont-au-change, Paris, vers 1784
1881
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1881
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This sketch shows a river with a stone bridge carrying people and a boat. On the left, tall buildings line the water’s edge, their windows and rooftops packed close together. To the right, a steep, empty embankment rises sharply, while a few figures stand or walk near the riverbank. The artist used fine lines to show light and shadow, making the buildings and bridge look solid. The river looks calm, with just a few ripples. Next, check out Realism to see how artists captured everyday scenes like this one.