Aug 21 1885: Nature Study (from Sketchbook X) 1885

William Trost Richards made this nature study on August 21st, 1885, using graphite and ink on paper. It's a simple sketch of foliage, seemingly a quick study plucked from the landscape. Made in the United States during the late 19th century, this work reflects a growing interest in scientific observation and the natural world. Richards, associated with the Hudson River School, often depicted landscapes, and this intimate study aligns with the era’s emphasis on detailed botanical illustration, which served both artistic and educational purposes. The sketch also speaks to the rise of leisure culture and the accessibility of art making. Advances in art materials and the growth of art education made sketching and painting en plein air increasingly popular. Understanding this work means delving into the cultural history of landscape painting and the development of scientific illustration. Museum archives and period publications can help us connect Richards' "Nature Study" to broader artistic and social trends of its time.