A Giant Oak at the Edge of a Forest
1844
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1844
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
A single giant oak fills the page. Its gnarled roots twist above the ground. The trunk is thick, its bark lined with deep grooves. The tree's dark leaves frame a sliver of sky. Steffelaar used fine pen lines and diluted ink washes. This mix gives the bark texture and depth. The leaves are just quick, spiky strokes. The background is left light—almost blank—which makes the tree stand out. It feels quiet and strong. Like something from an older story. Look up Steffelaar, Cornelis.
