Artwork preview

Cliffs Overhanging a River Gorge near Sorrento (recto)

Johann Joachim Faber

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts a rocky gorge with sunlight infiltrating through an opening in the rock formations. The horizon is not visible, with towering vertical cliffs framing the view. Slivers of sky can be seen through the narrow gap formed by the cliffs, along with cascading vegetation. The brushwork gives a sense of texture and volume to the rocks and foliage, with highlights and shadows. The color palette consists of warm sepia tones. Uneven rock surfaces and a calm pool of water lead the gaze outward towards dense greenery and a far-off hint of a mountainous structure with architectural elements atop it.

Artwork Details

Date
1823
Medium
graphite and brown wash on wove paper
Dimensions
4892 × 7136 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original