Artwork

Landscape, Sunset

Landscape, Sunset, by George Inness, oil, 1888
Landscape, Sunset, by George Inness, oil, 1888

Landscape, Sunset is an oil painting by the Hudson River School artist George Inness. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Landscape, Sunset is an 1888 oil on canvas painting by George Inness, an American landscape artist known for evolving from Hudson River School influences to a more personal, spiritually informed style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene landscape at sunset, characterized by warm colors and soft, feathery clouds, evoking a calm and peaceful atmosphere, reflective of Inness's emphasis on mood in his mature work.

Technique & Style

Inness employed soft brushstrokes and the technique of glazing to achieve the deep, rich colors that define the painting's tranquil sunset sky.

History & Provenance

Created in 1888, during Inness's mature period, Landscape, Sunset is now part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.

Context

This work reflects Inness's shift towards spiritual themes, influenced by Emanuel Swedenborg’s theology, and his departure from the Hudson River School's more literal approach to landscape painting.

Legacy

Landscape, Sunset exemplifies Inness's contribution to American landscape painting, showcasing his ability to capture emotional depth through landscape, influencing later artists in their pursuit of expressive, mood-driven works.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Inness

Artist

George Inness

George Inness (May 1, 1825 – August 3, 1894) was an American landscape painter. Now recognized as one of the most influential American artists of the nineteenth century, Inness was influenced by the Hudson River School…