Artwork preview

Trees with Tangled Roots

Anton Kölbl

National Gallery of Art

The image is a monochrome etching depicting a forest scene. The observer is on the forest floor looking slightly upward at a cluster of large trees. The etching features intricate roots sprawling across the ground, with trees rising behind them. The horizon is obscured by foliage and tree trunks, creating a closed visual space. The style includes detailed lines and cross-hatching to depict textures of bark, leaves, and roots. The color palette is grayscale, emphasizing line work and contrast. Additional trees are visible in the distance, blending into the shaded background to add depth to the composition.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1779/1810
Medium
etching and aquatint
Dimensions
7658 × 6303 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original