Artwork preview

Rock Cliffs above a Stream

Johann Christoph Erhard

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a vertical view of a rocky cliff with various levels of vegetation. The cliff dominates the scene, with no clear horizon visible due to its towering presence. Vegetation is seen on the rock surfaces, with more trees growing from crevices and the base. The artwork features detailed pencil strokes and shading, depicting the texture of the rocks and foliage. The color palette is monochromatic, using different shades of gray. Large boulders are seen close to the base of the cliff, with the cliff continuing to rise unevenly in the background.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1818
Medium
graphite on
Dimensions
3442 × 4174 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original