Dead Man, Brigand and Fleeing Child on Rocky Bluff n.d.

This anonymous drawing, "Dead Man, Brigand and Fleeing Child on Rocky Bluff", is a captivating portrayal of a dramatic scene set against a backdrop of rugged terrain. The composition centers around a towering tree and a large rock formation that dominates the foreground. The viewer's eye is drawn to the figures at the base of the cliff, including a man lying prone, a brigand, and a fleeing child. The use of pen and ink, with subtle shading and hatching, creates a sense of depth and texture, enhancing the viewer's engagement with the scene. This drawing, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, exemplifies the artistic sensibilities of the period, capturing a moment of heightened tension and uncertainty within the context of a landscape.