Rocks and Waterfall 1878

Casimir Clayton Griswold made "Rocks and Waterfall" using brown wash on paper. Born in Ohio, Griswold came of age during a period of significant environmental change in the United States, driven by industrialization and westward expansion. His landscapes, such as this one, reflect both an appreciation for the untouched wilderness and an awareness of its vulnerability. Griswold’s decision to depict this scene in monochrome may evoke a sense of nostalgia, suggesting a longing for a simpler, more pristine past. The lunette shape of the paper adds a touch of romanticism. Although this artwork seems to be a straightforward representation of nature, it invites us to reflect on our relationship with the environment. How do we see ourselves in relation to the natural world? What is our role in preserving it for future generations? "Rocks and Waterfall" offers a moment of contemplation, urging us to consider these important questions.