Images(2)

View of the Copper Mine

Artist John Mix Stanley (American, 1814 - 1872)

Date1847

Mediumoil on academy board

Dimensions9 7/8 x 12 3/4 inches (25.1 x 32.4 cm)
Frame: 12 5/8 × 15 1/2 × 1 inches (32.1 × 39.4 × 2.5 cm)

Credit LineBequest of H.J. Lutcher Stark, 1965

Object number31.23.1

ClassificationsPaintings

DescriptionHorizontal oil painting depicts a long line of people on horseback with pack animals proceeding into the distance where a series of low buildings occupies the midst of a low plain. The grassy plains and green trees of the surroundings are absent on a gray hill topped with a building to the left of the low plain. Hills with low bushes and rocks occupy the background against a partly cloudy sky.

Label TextTraveling with expeditions gave opportunities to artists. John Mix Stanley accompanied the United States Army of the West. It marched across the Southwest during the Mexican War. Stanley’s sketches served as illustrations for a report. A military officer wrote about the natural resources, such as the copper mines. He reported that the mines “are said to be very rich, both in copper and gold.” The report in effect inventoried the lands acquired during the War.

ProvenancePurchased February 4, 1958 through (Edward Eberstadt & Sons, New York, New York) by 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

On View

On view