In the Park, late 19th century Oil on canvas; 14 x 20 in. |
| William Merritt Chase was born in Williamsburg, Indiana, in 1849. Around the turn of the century Chase painted bright outdoor landscapes, like this picture, and established himself as a leading exponent of Impressionism in America. Chase always dressed in an elegant manner with a boutonniere in his lapel, a monocle on his eye, and a white Wolfhound at his side. His paintings tell us a great deal about affluent Victorian taste; the costumes, elaborate furnishings and manners of the day. Chase became one of the most popular and influential art teachers of the period. Among his famous students were, Charles Demuth, Marsden Hartley, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Charles Sheeler. |