Kauterskill Clove 1860

Jervis McEntee made this drawing of Kauterskill Clove on paper in 1866. At first glance, the subject seems straightforward: a stand of trees. But let’s consider the artist’s process. McEntee used graphite, a relatively common and inexpensive material, to create this work. Graphite is known for its soft, metallic gray color and the ease with which it glides across paper, allowing for fine lines and subtle gradations of tone. Look closely, and you’ll see how McEntee exploits these qualities. The graphite captures the delicate branching patterns of the trees with remarkable precision, while also conveying a sense of depth and atmosphere. The choice of such a readily available material speaks to the changing landscape of art production in the mid-19th century. Artists were increasingly interested in capturing everyday scenes and experiences, rather than grand historical or mythological subjects. A simple drawing like this could be produced relatively quickly and inexpensively, making art more accessible to a wider audience. In this way, even a humble graphite drawing can reflect broader social and economic shifts.