Artwork

Mountain of the Holy Cross, Colorado

Mountain of the Holy Cross, Colorado, by Thomas Moran, ink, 1888
Mountain of the Holy Cross, Colorado, by Thomas Moran, ink, 1888

Mountain of the Holy Cross, Colorado is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Thomas Moran. It dates from 1888 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Mountain of the Holy Cross, Colorado is a 1888 print by Thomas Moran, created using a combination of etching, roulette, and aquatint techniques on wove paper in a predominantly brown and gray color palette.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a rugged mountain valley in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, with a winding river, tall trees, and jagged, shadowed peaks. The scene conveys a sense of serene, misty natural grandeur.

Technique & Style

Moran employed etching, roulette, and aquatint to achieve sharp, textured marks. Fine lines meticulously render the details of rocks, trees, and landscape, evoking the immediacy of a sketch. The monochromatic brown and gray tones enhance the overall misty, quiet atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1888, this work reflects Moran's association with the Hudson River School. While specific provenance details are not provided, it is known that Moran often collaborated with his family in New York and worked as an illustrator for Scribner’s Monthly, showcasing his narrative skill.

Context

As part of Moran's oeuvre focused on the Rocky Mountains, this print aligns with the Hudson River School's emphasis on American natural beauty. Moran's work during this period also intersected with his role as a prominent illustrator, further highlighting his ability to capture compelling landscapes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Thomas Moran

Artist

Thomas Moran

Thomas Moran (February 12, 1837 – August 25, 1926) was an American painter and printmaker of the Hudson River School in New York whose work often featured the Rocky Mountains.

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