Boats at Anchor
1804
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1804
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This sketch shows a few tall ships with lots of ropes and sails, anchored in calm water. The boats are drawn in quick, loose lines, and the waves below look choppy. In the distance, a city’s rooftops and spires peek through the haze. The artist focused on light and shadow to show depth, not perfect detail. This style was new for its time. Next, check out Impressionism to see how artists used light differently.