Albert Berg Cemetery Nangasaki 1860 120772 1124 European art; part 1

The drawing presents a densely populated graveyard situated on a sloping hillside. The composition is dominated by upright stone markers, varying in size and shape, which appear to be arranged somewhat haphazardly across the terrain. A thick cluster of trees occupies the left portion of the scene, their foliage rendered with rapid, energetic lines that suggest both density and movement. These trees partially obscure the view of the graveyard beyond, creating a sense of enclosure and perhaps hinting at a boundary between the living and the deceased.
The hillside itself is depicted as steep, contributing to the feeling of an uneven, challenging landscape. A structure, possibly a small building or mausoleum, sits precariously on the upper slope, its form sketched with similar quick strokes that emphasize its weathered appearance. The artist has employed a technique of cross-hatching and short, broken lines throughout the drawing, which lends it a sense of immediacy and spontaneity.
The limited tonal range – achieved solely through line work – creates a stark contrast between light and shadow, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the scene. The perspective is somewhat flattened, suggesting an observational study rather than a detailed rendering. Theres a distinct lack of human presence; the graveyard exists as a silent, overgrown space.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a sense of melancholy and quietude. The density of the markers implies a history marked by loss, while the untamed vegetation suggests nature’s gradual reclamation of this dedicated space. The precarious placement of the structure on the hillside might be interpreted as symbolic of fragility or impermanence. The rapid execution style contributes to an overall impression of fleeting observation and a respectful distance from the subject matter.

There are markings in the lower left corner, which appear to be notations or signatures, and another marking in the upper right corner, possibly related to cataloging or identification.