A Master of Trees

This week we have added to our superb collection of drawings by master Henry William Burgess (c.1792–1839). Some of the studies are very close to works reproduced in his 1827 book, 'Eidodendron: views of the general character and appearance of trees foreign and indigenous connected with picturesque scenery'. In this book, and in the present collection of drawings, the emphasis is as much on the art of drawing itself as about the subjects depicted. Trees, with their exuberant foliage and gnarled, twisted branches provide a fine subject for the tonal variety achievable in graphite and subsequent lithography. Burgess and lithographer Hullmandel were among the earliest practitioners of lithography in England.

View the full collection by Henry William Burgess.