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
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, 1940On View
On viewCollections
