Clouds in the Evening

This 1823 study of clouds in the evening was painted in Dahl's early Dresden years when his systematic atmospheric observation program was being established. Evening light presented distinct challenges from his morning and midday studies: the warm tones of sunset light illuminating clouds from below created a different palette from the cooler, more neutral light of overcast or midday conditions. His cloud studies at different times of day collectively document how the same atmospheric formations appeared transformed by changing light quality across the daily cycle. This 1823 evening study is among the earlier examples of a program that would continue for over three decades.

The warm evening light suffusing the cloud formations is captured with luminous glazes of orange, pink, and gold, applied over cooler undertones to create depth and atmospheric recession.