In the Bleak Midwinter
I finally cut down the last of my baptisia pods, which were attractive in the fall, but had become bent over and forlorn since the last snow. Still, I liked the shape of this stem and decided that a stark portrait might be fitting for the first day of winter.
Christina Rosetti penned In the Bleak Midwinter as a Christmas poem in England sometime prior to 1872. The entire poem was later set to music and published as a Christmas carol in 1906. The script is based on Italics from the Treatise on Hawking by Italian scholar Francesco Moro, penned in about 1560-1570.
Note: I’ve finally updated my blog header and added a few new sketches to the journal section. Check them out when you have a chance and let me know what you think.
Drawn In 
Hey Jean — fabulous study in browns, and perfect for this time of year. And I love your new header!
Thanks Beth! Mostly just used burnt umber and ultramarine blue (a great combination), underpainted with a mix of yellow ochre and a bit of rose. Happy Holidays to you!
Jean, thanks for getting us into the winter mood with a very lovely portrait of this plant. The script is also nice!
My favorite Christmas carol. You have given your heart to all of us. Thank you.
Cool
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