Cloud Study (recto, from sketchbook) 1869

This small study of clouds was made with graphite on paper by Jervis McEntee. McEntee’s subtle gradations of tone capture the atmosphere of the sky. The artist's deliberate strokes remind us of the labor involved in creating such a delicate rendering. The texture of the paper, with its slight tooth, influences the graphite's application, creating a grainy effect. We can see the artist carefully building up layers of graphite to achieve the desired depth and luminosity, evoking the fleeting nature of clouds. In the 19th century, the rise of industrialization and urbanization led artists to seek solace in nature, and cloud studies became a popular genre, reflecting a desire to capture the sublime beauty of the natural world. Looking closely at this drawing, we can appreciate McEntee's technical skill and the intimate connection between the artist, his materials, and the natural world, blurring the boundaries between observation, craft, and art.