'A peculiar vapour is spread over distinct objects, which takes off their harshness and rounds them. The shadows are never black and heavy; for there are no masses so obscure, even among the rocks and foliage, but that a little light may always insinuate itself. A singular tint and most peculiar harmony unite the earth, the sky, and the waters. All the surfaces unite at their extremities by means of an insensible gradation of colours, and without the possibility of ascertaining the point at which one ends, or another begins. You have doubtless admired this sort of light in Claude Lorrain's landscapes. It appears ideal and still more beautiful than nature; but it is the light of Rome.'
from Recollections - Chateaubriand
