La Punta 23 - 1847

Karl Peter Burnitz created this watercolour landscape, La Punta. Burnitz applied thin washes of pigment to paper, allowing the inherent qualities of the material to influence the final appearance. The translucency of the watercolour creates a sense of depth and atmosphere, capturing the unique light and atmosphere of the location. The process involves layering and blending colors, achieving subtle tonal variations, and defining form and space. Historically, watercolour was favored for its portability, and for being well-suited to travel and plein-air painting. Watercolors, such as La Punta, allowed artists to quickly capture impressions of a scene, which reflects the changing conditions of the natural world, marking a departure from academic studio practices. By examining the materials and processes used in La Punta, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved in this work, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.