Amalfi, Blick über einen Wachturm auf S. Francesco c. 1826 - 1827

Ernst Fries created this delicate drawing of Amalfi with ink and graphite on paper. The monochromatic palette directs our attention to the artist’s hand and the marks he made on the page. Note the delicate lines and shading that define the architectural elements. The varying applications of ink wash and graphite create a sense of depth and texture. The softness of the landscape is in high contrast to the clear delineation of the man-made structures, like the watchtower. The artist's meticulous technique speaks to a tradition of finely rendered landscape drawings. Such works allowed artists to capture the beauty of the natural world, as well as reflect on the historical narratives embedded within it. The materiality of the drawing—the paper, ink, and graphite—all contribute to its subtle, understated beauty. It reminds us that even the simplest materials, when skillfully employed, can evoke powerful aesthetic experiences.