Artwork

Landscape near Painesville

Landscape near Painesville, by Allen Smith, Jr., unspecified, 1884
Landscape near Painesville, by Allen Smith, Jr., unspecified, 1884

Landscape near Painesville is an unspecified painting by the American Impressionist artist Allen Smith, Jr.. It dates from 1884 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Created circa 1884 by Cleveland‑based portraitist Allen Smith Jr.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1884 by Cleveland‑based portraitist Allen Smith Jr., *Landscape near Painesville* is an oil painting that now belongs to the Cleveland Museum of Art. Though primarily known for portraiture, Smith occasionally turned to countryside subjects, and this work exemplifies his foray into the American Impressionist vein.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a tranquil rural scene: a modest stream bisects the canvas, flanked by a line of trees that frame the water’s gentle flow. Above, a light‑blue sky is dotted with soft clouds, conveying a calm, everyday atmosphere of the Painesville region.

Technique & Style

Executed in a realistic manner, the painting emphasizes fine detail in foliage and rippling water. Muted tones of green, brown, and gray dominate, while subtle variations in light capture the fleeting atmospheric conditions favored by Impressionist painters.

History & Provenance

After its completion, the work entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on view. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s interest in documenting regional artists who contributed to late‑19th‑century American art movements.

Artist & collection

Artist

Allen Smith, Jr.

Allen Smith Jr. (1810, Rhode Island - 1890, Cleveland, Ohio) was an American portrait painter. He also created some landscapes and genre scenes.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.