Henry Brocas Senior (1762-1837), Wooden Bridge over the River Dargle

Graphite, charcoal and chalk drawing of mature trees on a riverbank, with a wooden bridge traversing a fast-moving river. Beautiful and skillful drawing, capturing light, shade and movement, as well as the majesty of the two dominant trees. Based on the text in pencil along the base of the drawing, this is the river Dargle in Co Wicklow, of which Powerscourt waterfall (the tallest waterfall in Ireland) is one part. In the far distance, beyond the trees and where the footpath disappears, you can see the faint outline and windows of a large, building, probably Enniskerry Mill, or the Darge Flour Mill, close to Powerscourt and Charleville estates. Henry Brocas Senior is recorded as frequenting this area, and similar drawings are in national collections. 

Henry Brocas was the father of a family of artists, all of whom were renowned in their time. As topographical artists, they were accurate and meticulous in their recording of the natural and built environment. He himself was a teacher, master draftsman and engraver. The bulk of his surviving work is now in the National Gallery and National Library of Ireland, as well of course as in private collections. The Brocas stamp on the base indicates that it was at one point part of a catalogued collection.

44 x 32cm approximately. Charcoal, graphite and chalk drawing on cotton wove.  Newly framed, glazed and with new backing board. Text and description, partially illegible, as well as 'Brocas' stamp at base.

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