1544
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
River Landscape is a 1544 ink by German 16th Century, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This drawing shows a quiet river winding through a forest. Tall trees line the banks, their branches bare or lightly dusted with white. The water reflects a pale sky, where fluffy clouds float above. In the distance, a small bridge or dam cuts across the river, and a few buildings peek through the trees. The artist used quick, sketchy lines to show light and shadow. Notice how the white ink stands out against the red-brown background—it makes the trees and clouds pop. Next, check out cross-hatching to see how artists build up tone with layers of lines.
A German artist from the late 1500s drew lively scenes of knights clashing in parades and mock battles.
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