Two Boats for "L'Abside de Notre-Dame de Paris" c. 1854

Charles Meryon rendered these two boats with graphite on paper in the 19th century. The choice of graphite, a humble material, and the sketch-like quality suggest a preliminary study rather than a finished artwork. Meryon’s marks capture the boats' forms with an economy of line, focusing on their essential shapes and their reflection on the water. The graphite lends itself to subtle gradations of tone, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere despite the work's small scale. Meryon was a master printmaker, and this drawing relates to his series of etchings of Paris. One can imagine him using this drawing as a reference for his more complex work. This drawing gives us a glimpse into the artist's working process. It reminds us that even the most polished artworks often begin with simple, direct observations, translated through skilled handwork. This piece challenges us to see the value in these preparatory explorations.