Untitled (Steamship In Boston Harbor)
1888
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1888
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This drawing shows a steamship puffing black smoke in a harbor. The water is calm, with a small boat and a swimmer in the foreground. In the distance, a city skyline and other ships appear faint and hazy. The artist used lines to show light and shadow, making the ship look solid. The smoke and water details are soft, almost like a sketch. Next, check out the technique: etching to see how artists like this one create depth with ink and metal plates.