The Keep of Rochester Castle, Kent, from the East c. 1797

Editor: This is Thomas Girtin's "The Keep of Rochester Castle, Kent, from the East," a pencil drawing. It feels unfinished, almost ghostly. What do you see in this piece, focusing on its formal elements? Curator: The linear quality predominates. Notice how Girtin uses delicate, almost tentative lines to define the castle's form. The absence of strong tonal contrasts creates a sense of flatness, emphasizing the two-dimensional surface. Editor: So the composition itself is key? Curator: Precisely. The lines, rather than creating depth, delineate the structure. Observe the subtle variations in line weight; they suggest a nascent understanding of form, but the overall effect is planar. Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't considered. Thank you! Curator: It's been a pleasure to discuss Girtin's work with you.