Sercy Burgundy France Possibly Depicted in a c1850 Graphite Castle Drawing

Description

This antique castle drawing, dating from around 1850, possibly depicts the Château de Sercy in Burgundy, France. Executed in graphite on paper, it combines detailed architectural observation with the picturesque atmosphere of a nineteenth-century castle study.

Two substantial round towers dominate the foreground. Between them, a pointed entrance arch is topped by a projecting structure with distinctive cross-bracing. The adjoining building on the left features galleries and pierced balustrades, while a long wing extends towards another round tower on the right.

Careful shading brings out the curved masonry, roof shapes and recessed openings. Trees and shrubs soften the architecture, and small figures near the buildings introduce a sense of scale. The contrast between closely worked passages and lighter areas gives the composition depth and a pleasing balance.

The Château de Sercy has been suggested as a possible identification. This remains unconfirmed and is presented as a research lead. An inscription and date appear at the lower right but are only partly legible. The artist has not been identified.

Medium: graphite on paper.
Period: mid-nineteenth century circa 1850.
Sheet dimensions: 26.5 × 21 cm.