Sketch of a Caravel; Figure in a Boat (from Sketchbook) 1891

This pencil sketch by Albert Bierstadt, a renowned American landscape painter, depicts a caravel, a type of ship commonly used in the Age of Exploration. The drawing, created in 1891, features a detailed rendering of the caravel's hull and masts. Though a preliminary study, the artist's hand is evident in the meticulous lines and the sense of movement conveyed. The small size and intimate nature of the piece suggest it was likely part of Bierstadt's personal sketchbook, capturing his interest in maritime history and the visual poetry of seafaring vessels.