The Harp Player (A Solo)

Kenyon Cox

Created:
Movement:
1888
Realism
key Notes:
Neoclassical elegance, Musical introspection
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Dimensions:
30 x 17 7/8 in. (76.2 x 45.4 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Harp Player (A Solo)" is a painting by American artist Kenyon Cox, created in 1888. The work exemplifies Cox's interest in classical themes and the human figure, reflecting the influence of the academic tradition in art during the late 19th century. The painting depicts a young woman playing a harp, embodying both grace and serenity. Cox's use of color and light enhances the lyrical quality of the scene, contributing to its overall harmony. The artist was known for his ability to blend realism with idealism, a characteristic evident in this piece. "The Harp Player" is often noted for its attention to detail and the expressive quality of the figure's pose. The painting is part of the collection at the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, Ohio. Further details about the painting's exhibition history or provenance are not widely documented.

Description of the work:

"The Harp Player (A Solo)" by Kenyon Cox, created in 1888, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a young woman seated with a harp. The figure is rendered in a classical style, characterized by smooth, flowing lines and a harmonious color palette dominated by warm earth tones and soft pastels. The woman's attire features draped fabrics that suggest both elegance and movement, enhancing the overall sense of grace. The background is subtly painted, allowing the figure and the harp to remain the focal points of the composition. Light plays across the surface, highlighting the contours of the figure and the intricate details of the harp. The overall atmosphere conveys a sense of tranquility and introspection, inviting viewers to engage with the serene moment captured in the artwork.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Harp Player (A Solo)