Sunset (1880)

Harvey O. Young

Created:
Movement:
1880
Tonalism
key Notes:
Vibrant Horizon, Atmospheric Light
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
20 × 30 in. (50.8 × 76.2 cm) Framed: 26 3/8 in. × 36 7/16 in. × 4 in. (67 × 92.5 × 10.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Sunset" by Harvey O. Young, created circa 1870–80, is a notable example of American landscape painting from the late 19th century. The work reflects the Romantic emphasis on nature and the sublime, capturing the atmospheric effects of light during twilight. Young's technique showcases a blend of realism and impressionistic elements, characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork. The painting is significant for its representation of the American landscape during a period of westward expansion and growing appreciation for natural beauty. Specific details about the painting's provenance, exhibition history, or critical reception are not widely documented. The artist's biography remains largely obscure, with limited information available regarding his life and career.

Description of the work:

"Sunset" by Harvey O. Young, created circa 1870–80, is an oil on canvas painting that captures a dramatic evening sky. The composition features a vibrant palette dominated by warm hues of orange, red, and yellow, which blend seamlessly to depict the setting sun. The sky is rendered with expressive brushwork, creating a sense of movement and atmosphere. Below the horizon, darker tones of blue and purple contrast with the luminous sky, suggesting the encroaching night. The foreground is likely characterized by silhouettes of trees or landforms, grounding the viewer in the natural landscape. The overall effect evokes a sense of tranquility and the ephemeral beauty of twilight. The painting exemplifies the Romantic interest in nature and the sublime, highlighting Young's skill in capturing light and color.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Sunset (1880)