Rip Van Winkle c. 1840

"Rip Van Winkle," a pencil drawing by Asher B. Durand (1796-1886) c. 1840, depicts the titular character from Washington Irving's short story in a reclined pose holding a rifle. This preliminary sketch is a study for a larger work, demonstrating Durand’s interest in narrative scenes from American literature. The work captures the essence of the story, with Rip’s weary figure and the surrounding woods suggesting his long sleep and the transformative passage of time. The simplicity of the drawing, with its emphasis on form and line, is characteristic of Durand’s style, showcasing his talent for capturing the beauty of the natural world.