Taking the Census

Francis William Edmonds

Created:
Movement:
1854
Realism
key Notes:
Genre scene, Social commentary
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Dimensions:
28 x 38 in. (71.1 x 96.5 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

We have not been able to find much information about this work, or we believe the information we sourced needed more review.

Francis William Edmonds: "Taking the Census" (1854)

"Taking the Census" is an oil on canvas painting created by American artist Francis William Edmonds in 1854. This work is emblematic of Edmonds' focus on genre painting, capturing everyday scenes with a keen eye for detail and social commentary. The painting reflects the mid-19th century American life, offering insights into the societal norms and practices of the time, particularly the process of census-taking. Edmonds, who was also a banker, often depicted scenes that resonated with the common American experience, contributing to the development of a distinctly American art style. His works are noted for their narrative quality and ability to engage viewers with familiar, yet thoughtfully composed, domestic scenes. "Taking the Census" is a testament to Edmonds' skill in blending art with social observation, making it a significant piece in the context of American genre painting.

Description of the work:

Taking the Census by Francis William Edmonds

Created in 1854, "Taking the Census" by Francis William Edmonds is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies genre painting, capturing a domestic scene with detailed realism. The artwork reflects mid-19th century American life, focusing on the social interaction during a census-taking event.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Taking the Census