Outline Sketch of a Mountainside (from Sketchbook X) 1885

William Trost Richards made this graphite sketch of a mountainside, part of Sketchbook X, in the 19th century. Richards was associated with the Hudson River School, a group of landscape painters who found particular inspiration in the American wilderness. The sketch itself is minimal, capturing just the barest essence of a mountain range. In the 19th century, American landscape painting played a crucial role in shaping national identity. Artists like Richards presented the American landscape as a symbol of boundless opportunity, and the sketches of mountains encouraged viewers to connect with the idea of nature as both sublime and uniquely American. The founding of institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where this sketch now resides, reflect a growing interest in preserving and celebrating American art and culture. Understanding the social and cultural context helps us appreciate how even a simple sketch can carry significant cultural weight. Examining period writings, exhibition catalogues, and artists' biographies can provide deeper insights into the cultural significance of this artwork.