Cape Ann Willows1887

The image depicts a landscape seen from a slightly elevated perspective, with a tranquil scene. The horizon is high in the composition, showing a vast view. There are a few distant trees and silhouettes blending into the sky. The brushstrokes are expressive and fluid, with a sketch-like quality depicting texture and movement in the trees and ground. The color palette is primarily monochrome, using shades of black and grey. Near the viewer, there are low plants and shrubs on sandy ground, leading to a small body of water reflecting dense trees. In the distance, the landscape becomes more open and sparse towards the horizon.

Description from the National Gallery of Art.

Charles A. Platt made this in 1887, aged 26. It is now at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.

How it was made

Drypoint

Lines scratched straight into the plate with a needle throw up a ridge of metal, the burr, which holds ink and prints a soft, furred line. The burr wears down, so early impressions are the richest.