Artwork

Revery

Revery, by William Saint John Harper, ink, 1888
Revery, by William Saint John Harper, ink, 1888

Revery is an ink print by the Impressionist artist William Saint John Harper. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Revery, an etching and drypoint print by William Saint John Harper, dates to 1888. It depicts a contemplative woman immersed in a serene natural setting.

Subject & Meaning

A woman, dressed in a long-sleeved shirt and hat, sits amidst tall grass and under a tree with elongated branches, conveying a sense of calm and relaxation. Her introspective pose and the enveloping natural elements suggest a state of peaceful reverie.

Technique & Style

Harper employed etching and drypoint to achieve textured, depthful visuals. The interplay of lines and shading enhances the serene atmosphere, with the tree’s branches above creating a protective canopy.

History & Provenance

Created in 1888, specific provenance details for 'Revery' are not provided in the available information.

Context

'Revery' reflects late 19th-century artistic inclinations towards capturing contemplative states within natural settings, emphasizing harmony between humanity and the environment.

Legacy

While 'Revery' showcases Harper’s technical skill with etching and drypoint, its broader impact or influence on subsequent artistic movements is not explicitly outlined in the provided context.

Artist & collection

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