217 - E. STEPPES (1873–1968), Tree Study, 1920, pen drawing

E. STEPPES (1873–1968), Tree Study, 1920, pen drawing Edmund Steppes (1873, Burghausen – 1968, Deggendorf): Tree Study, 1920, pen drawing Technique: Watercolor pen drawing on paper Watermark: Figures (Human): Lion with sword and lily | Date: | online watermark reference: 1466 Inscription: Signed lower right: “Edm. St.” Dated lower right: “23.8.1920”. Date: 1920 Description: The artwork features a delicate drawing of ferns that extend elegantly across the picture surface. The delicate lines and hatching convey the fine structures of the fronds and stems. The composition is loose and airy, emphasizing the natural grace of the plants. The lines vary in intensity, lending the depiction a certain dynamism. A signature and a date are visible at the bottom of the picture, indicating the artist’s personal touch. The lighting is even, allowing the details of the drawing to stand out clearly. The background is kept simple to focus attention on the plant elements. Provenance: From the artist’s estate. Keywords: Nature; Trees; Study; Growth direction; Naturalness; 20th century; Realism; Botany; Germany; Size: Paper: 19.6 cm x 14.5 cm (7.7 x 5.7 in) Condition: Good condition. Partially untrimmed along the edges. Slightly rubbed in the corners. The watercolor in the background is slightly stained.