The River

Artist George Inness (American, 1825 - 1894)

Date1878

Mediumoil on canvas

Dimensions16 x 23 5/8 inches (40.6 x 60 cm)

Credit LineBequest of H.J. Lutcher Stark, 1965

Object number31.38.8

ClassificationsPaintings

Label TextIn the nineteenth century Americans increasingly saw the American continent as a source both of identity and material wealth. Landscape paintings, such as The River, expressed this interest in America's resources. Here Inness portrayed a quiet, lush scene of Pompton River, New Jersey, near his home. The importance of the landscape would also propel artists to travel to the exotic and dramatic American West.

ProvenanceGovernor Oliver Ames, Boston, Massachusetts; (American Art Association, New York, no. 29, repro.); purchased January 16, 1919 Estate of Governor Oliver Ames, Massachusetts; purchased June 10, 1919 through (Cannell and Chaffin, Inc., Los Angeles, California) by Miriam Lutcher Stark [Mrs. W.H. Stark, 1859-1936]; by inheritance to her son bequeathed H.J. Lutcher Stark [1887-1965]; bequeathed September 2, 1965 to the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation; accessioned to the Stark Museum of Art

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