33 - E. BRETENIÈRES (*1804), Tree sculptures near Aigle in the canton of Vaud, 1855, pencil

E. BRETENIÈRES (*1804), Tree sculptures near Aigle in the canton of Vaud, 1855, pencil Edmond de Bretenières (1804 Dijon – 1882 ibid.): Tree shapes near Aigle in the canton of Vaud, journey to Switzerland, sketchbook, 1855, pencil Technique: Pencil on paper, mounted on paper Date: 1855 Description: From a scrapbook containing the artist’s travel sketches. “Esquisses faites par le Baron Edmond de Bretenières lors de ses voyages en Suisse” (Sketches made by Baron Edmond de Bretenières during his travels in Switzerland). The artwork depicts a detailed pencil drawing of tree trunks and branches. The composition emphasizes the curved shapes and textures of the tree bark, which extend in various directions. The drawing conveys a sense of depth and complexity as the branches overlap and extend into the background. The lines are fine and precise, highlighting the natural structure and organic shapes of the wood. The lighting is subtle, without strong contrasts, allowing the soft shading of the pencil lines to enhance the sculptural effect of the forms. The composition is balanced and conveys calm and stability. Keywords: Tree; branches; wood; pencil drawing; nature; structure; texture; organic shapes; depth; light; shading; sketch; detail; bark; overlap; rest; resistance; fineness; precision; 19th century; Romanticism; Nature; Switzerland; Size: Paper: 30.2 cm x 23.9 cm (11.9 x 9.4 in) Condition: Good condition. The paper is slightly creased in places. The corners of the sheet are noticeably wavy due to mounting on the reverse. Minimal traces of liquid and wavy areas on all sides.