The Chase

Artist Ralph Albert Blakelock (American, 1847–1919)

Date1879

Mediumoil on canvas mounted on panel

Dimensionspanel: 50.8 x 91.8 cm (20 x 36 1/8 in.)

ClassificationsPaintings

Credit LineTheodore T. and Mary G. Ellis Collection

Terms

oil on canvas

Object number1940.98

Label TextBlakelock excelled at creating haunting images of the natural environment. The phantom-like figure on horseback shooting at unseen prey may emanate from his memories of the Native American tribes he observed during his travels in the American West (1869-72). The hunter’s swift movement contrasts with the quiet forest painted in dark, monochromatic tones. The highly textured, cracked surface demonstrates Blakelock’s individual style and experimentation with the media. With its somber, mood and hazy quality, this painting expresses the artist’s vision of a luminous, otherworldly realm.ProvenanceDr. Martin Burke, New York, before 1889; Dr. Arthur P. Coll, New York; (William Macbeth, New York, ?-1916); (Robert C. Vose Galleries, Boston, 1916); Ralph H. White, Boston, 1916-1920; (White Sale, American Art Association, Anderson Galleries, 2-26-20, no. 140); (Robert C. Vose Galleries, Boston, 1920-?); (William Macbeth, New York, ?-1922); Theodore T. and Mary G. Ellis, Worcester, 1922-1940; WAM, 1940

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