Crimean kind. At Yalta. Ivan Ivanovich Shishkin (1832-1898)

The drawing presents a rugged landscape dominated by rocky terrain and dense vegetation. Here we observe a steep slope descending into what appears to be a ravine or gully. The artist has rendered the scene in a monochromatic palette, relying on tonal variations to suggest depth and texture.
A prominent feature is the cluster of tall, slender trees rising from the center foreground. Their stark, almost skeletal forms contrast with the more rounded shapes of the surrounding foliage. These trees appear to be pines or firs, their branches sparsely distributed, creating a sense of fragility against the backdrop of the imposing rocks.
The ground itself is depicted as a chaotic jumble of boulders and smaller stones, meticulously detailed with quick, energetic lines that convey their rough surfaces. The artist has used cross-hatching extensively to build up shadow and volume, giving the impression of considerable three-dimensionality. A small stream or trickle of water can be discerned winding its way down the slope, adding a sense of movement and life to the otherwise stark environment.
The composition is structured around diagonal lines that lead the eye downwards and towards the vanishing point in the distance. This creates a feeling of vastness and emphasizes the scale of the landscape. The upper portion of the drawing shows more distant trees diminishing in size, further reinforcing this sense of depth.
Subtly, there’s an impression of untamed nature – a place where human intervention is minimal. The lack of any visible structures or figures contributes to this feeling of isolation and wildness. The emphasis on texture and detail suggests a close observation of the natural world, perhaps hinting at a desire to capture its inherent beauty and resilience. The drawing’s starkness might also evoke a sense of melancholy or contemplation, inviting the viewer to reflect upon the power and indifference of nature.