A Blasted Tree (c. 1785)

Benjamin West is the artist behind "A Blasted Tree", dated c. 1785. Drawings, a short history: Drawings range from quick preparatory sketches to finished works in pen, chalk, charcoal, graphite, or wash. Because line carries so much of the effect, drawings tend to reward close looking at the quality of the mark. About the period around c. 1785: The Enlightenment and the habit of the Grand Tour fed a wider interest in science, travel, antiquity, and natural history, and illustrators accompanied many expeditions. In Japan, ukiyo-e woodblock printing flourished in the Edo period and made colour prints a popular and affordable art form. It is listed in the Drawings collection. The image is in square orientation.

"A Blasted Tree" is offered as a printable file (Digital JPEG + PDF files, 300 DPI) rather than a shipped item. You receive the files by email after payment and handle printing yourself, which gives you full control over paper, size, and finish. A square format is flexible and works well on its own or as part of a grid on a gallery wall. Measuring the wall before choosing a size is the simplest way to avoid a print that feels too small or too large. Screens and printers render colour differently, so a small test print is a sensible way to check tones before committing to a large size. Matte and fine-art papers reduce glare in bright rooms, while glossy papers give stronger contrast and deeper blacks. Hang the print away from direct sunlight, which over the years can fade any printed colour.

American, 1738–1820

If you like the visual language of Benjamin West, explore more works by the same artist in our collection.