1883 Burn 59, 2h45, 1 Ivan Ivanovich Shishkin (1832-1898)

The drawing presents a landscape dominated by dense foliage and water. A body of water occupies the lower third of the composition, its surface rendered with short, agitated strokes that suggest movement or reflection. The bank bordering this water is uneven, sloping upwards towards a cluster of trees which form the central focus of the work. These trees are depicted with an intricate network of lines, conveying their volume and texture through variations in density and direction.
The artist employed a technique that emphasizes tonal contrast to create depth and atmosphere. Lighter areas suggest highlights on the waters surface and the sandy bank, while darker tones define the shadowed recesses within the foliage. This interplay of light and shadow contributes to a sense of spatial recession, drawing the viewer’s eye into the scene.
The sky is suggested through loose, swirling marks at the top of the composition, hinting at cloud cover without providing specific details. The overall effect is one of quiet observation; a moment captured in nature.
Subtly, theres an implication of human presence. A rudimentary wooden structure juts out from the water’s edge, suggesting a makeshift dock or platform. This element introduces a note of intervention within the natural setting, albeit understated and integrated into the landscape. The signature at the bottom right corner is discreet, further reinforcing the impression of a candid observation rather than a staged display.
The drawings monochromatic palette contributes to its contemplative mood, stripping away color distractions and focusing attention on form, texture, and tonal relationships. It evokes a sense of solitude and tranquility, inviting quiet reflection upon the natural world.