New York from the Harbor Showing the Battery and Castle Garden

Alfred Copestick

Created:
Movement:
1858
Realism
key Notes:
Panoramic Harbor View, 19th-Century Urban Landscape
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Dimensions:
13 7/8 x 21 in. (35.2 x 53.3 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

"New York from the Harbor Showing the Battery and Castle Garden" is a painting by Alfred Copestick, created in 1858. The work depicts a view of New York City from the harbor, highlighting the Battery and Castle Garden, which was a prominent landmark at the time. Alfred Copestick was an English-born artist known for his maritime and landscape scenes. The painting reflects the mid-19th century American interest in urban development and the significance of New York as a bustling port city. The exact circumstances of its commission or exhibition history are unknown. The painting is characterized by its detailed representation of the waterfront and the architectural features of the Battery and Castle Garden. Copestick's style is noted for its realism and attention to atmospheric effects. The work is part of the broader tradition of American landscape painting during this period.

Description of the work:

"New York from the Harbor Showing the Battery and Castle Garden" by Alfred Copestick, created in 1858, depicts a panoramic view of New York City as seen from the harbor. The painting captures the bustling activity of the waterfront, with ships and boats rendered in various sizes, emphasizing the maritime culture of the era. The foreground features the Battery, characterized by its lush greenery and pathways, while Castle Garden is depicted as a prominent structure, contributing to the historical context of the scene. The use of oil on canvas allows for a rich color palette, with blues and greens dominating the water and foliage, contrasted by the warm tones of the buildings. The sky is painted with soft, atmospheric effects, suggesting a clear day, which enhances the vibrancy of the cityscape. The composition balances the natural elements with architectural features, reflecting the harmony between urban development and the surrounding environment. Overall, the painting serves as a historical document of mid-19th century New York, showcasing both its landscape and its significance as a port city.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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New York from the Harbor Showing the Battery and Castle Garden