Artwork

Halfway Home

Halfway Home, by William McTaggart, oil, 1869
Halfway Home, by William McTaggart, oil, 1869

Halfway Home is an oil painting by William McTaggart. It dates from 1869 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

Halfway Home is an 1869 oil painting by William McTaggart, a Scottish artist active from the mid-19th century. The work is part of the Scottish National Gallery's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a young girl resting on a beach, wearing a dark dress and red shawl, with a basket in her lap. Her calm demeanor suggests a pause in her journey. The basket's contents are unclear, but may be items she has gathered.

Technique & Style

McTaggart's loose brushwork and atmospheric effects in Halfway Home reflect his evolving style, which was later associated with Impressionist influences. The painting captures a serene coastal scene, with the girl as its central figure.

History & Provenance

Painted in 1869, Halfway Home is a product of McTaggart's early career, during which he developed his skills as a landscape and marine painter. The work is now held in the Scottish National Gallery.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William McTaggart

Artist

William McTaggart

William McTaggart (25 October 1835 – 2 April 1910) was a Scottish landscape and marine painter who was influenced by Impressionism.