View of a Waterfall through a Ravine
1776 to 1800
Medium
watercolor over graphite with scratching-out on wove paper
Dimensions
overall: 32.6 x 21.2 cm (12 13/16 x 8 3/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of the Christian Humann Foundation
Accession Number
1996.128.27
Art Historical Context
"View of a Waterfall a Ravine," attributed to Achille-Etna Michallon (French, 1796–1822), captures the dramatic beauty of nature in a delicate watercolor over graphite on wove paper, dating to between 1776 and 1800. This intimate drawing, measuring 32.6 x 21.2 cm, showcases a cascading waterfall framed by a narrow ravine, evoking the sublime power of untamed landscapes that captivated artists of the era. Michallon's technique highlights his mastery of mixed media: subtle graphite underdrawing provides structure, while translucent watercolor layers build depth and luminosity. The scratching-ou...