Monte Soratte gezien vanaf Civita Castellana c. 1808 - 1857

This drawing, *Monte Soratte gezien vanaf Civita Castellana*, was made by Abraham Teerlink in the 19th century using graphite. The composition is neatly divided, with the mountain dominating the left page and the landscape stretching across both. Note how Teerlink uses line and shading to convey depth. The sharp, distinct strokes that define Monte Soratte gradually soften as the eye moves to the right, creating atmospheric perspective. The formal structure evokes a sense of Romanticism. The sublime, almost overwhelming presence of nature reminds us of the insignificance of human endeavour. Yet, there's a sense of balance, a dialogue between the micro and macro. The sketch invites us to consider how we perceive and structure our environment. Observe the drawing's symmetry and calculated use of space, where Teerlink’s marks reveal a deeper engagement with philosophical themes such as perception and the self's place in the natural world. It invites ongoing interpretation and reflection.