At Marblehead Neck
1883
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1883
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This sketch shows a quiet coastal scene with rough rocks and scrubby bushes in the foreground. A few sheep graze near the shore, while the water stretches out to a distant island. The sky is light but textured, and the whole scene feels sketchy and quick—like it was drawn fast. The artist focused on rough textures, from the jagged rocks to the wispy grass. It’s not polished; it’s raw, almost like a quick note of a real place. Next, check out James David Smillie (American, 1833–1909) to see more of his work.