Sketch of Tree Trunk c. 1877

This graphite sketch of a tree trunk, dating back to 1877, is a delicate study in naturalism. The artist, Hendrik Pieter Koekkoek, meticulously rendered the textures and patterns of the tree bark, capturing the subtle variations in shade and light. The simplicity of the composition, with the lone trunk against a blank background, allows the viewer to focus solely on the intricacies of the natural form. The sketch exemplifies the Dutch artist's interest in capturing the beauty of the natural world through detailed observation. It's a testament to Koekkoek's skill and the power of a seemingly simple subject.