The Ponte Sant'Angelo and Houses on the East Bank of the Tiber 1744 - 1750

This study of the Ponte Sant'Angelo and houses on the Tiber's east bank was created with graphite on paper by Joseph Marie Vien. Graphite, though seemingly simple, allowed Vien to capture the subtle gradations of light and shadow playing across the Roman architecture and landscape. Notice how he used varied pressure and density of strokes to define the forms. The texture of the paper itself contributes to the sketch's overall effect. The relative softness of graphite is ideal for quick sketching as it effortlessly glides across the fibers of the paper. It would be especially useful for preparatory sketches en plein air because the material is easily portable and the paper can be crumpled into a small ball. Vien's choice of material is significant. Rather than meticulously rendering every detail, he prioritizes capturing the essence of the scene with efficiency. This approach reflects the changing landscape of artistic production at the time, influenced by the rise of industrialism and the need for rapid documentation.