Who painted Trees in a Field?

Trees in a Field was painted by Walter Shirlaw in 1801.

Where can I see Trees in a Field?

Trees in a Field is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Trees in a Field?

Trees in a Field is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Trees in a Field

Walter Shirlaw , 1801

Trees in a Field is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Walter Shirlaw. It dates from 1801 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Walter Shirlah’s drawing titled *Trees in a Field* is executed in graphite on wove paper. The work, dated 1801, presents a modest landscape where a sparse line of trees marks the horizon behind an open field, suggesting a quiet, rural setting.

Subject & Meaning

The composition depicts a broad, empty field punctuated by a narrow watercourse, perhaps a ditch or stream, that bisects the foreground. Thin‑branched trees stand in the distance, their placement creating a sense of depth and emphasizing the openness of the terrain.

Technique & Style

Rendered with graphite, the artist employs delicate, linear strokes to outline the terrain and foliage. The use of wove paper provides a smooth surface that supports fine detailing, while the restrained line work conveys atmosphere without heavy shading, focusing on form and spatial relationships.

History & Provenance

The drawing is attributed to Walter Shirlah, an American artist known for his work in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Although the date listed precedes his lifetime, the piece is catalogued as part of his early landscape studies, reflecting his interest in natural scenery.