Artwork
The Morning Glory

The Morning Glory is an unspecified painting by the American Impressionist artist Elihu Vedder. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
The Morning Glory, painted in 1900 by American artist Elihu Vedder, is a symbolic work that combines elements of American Impressionism with the artist's characteristic thematic depth. The piece is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston's collection.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting a nude woman kneeling on a large, purple flower with her back to the viewer, the painting conveys a sense of intimacy and harmony with nature. The woman's outstretched arms, gently touching the flower's petals, emphasize her vulnerability and beauty within the natural world.
Technique & Style
Vedder's use of color and composition guides the viewer's focus to the painting's center. The contrast between the purple flower with green accents and white border, set against a muted brown background, highlights the subject's emotional and physical connection to the floral element.
History & Provenance
Created in 1900, The Morning Glory is part of Vedder's oeuvre that followed his notable work illustrating Edward FitzGerald’s The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. The painting is currently held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
Context
While often associated with American Impressionism, Vedder's work, as seen in The Morning Glory, leans heavily towards symbolism, reflecting his interest in poetic and symbolic themes beyond the movement's typical focus.
Legacy
The Morning Glory reflects Vedder's unique blend of impressionist techniques with symbolic depth, contributing to his legacy as a multifaceted artist who worked across painting, illustration, and poetry. For deeper insight into his work, exploring his illustrations, such as those for The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, provides additional context.
Artist & collection
Artist
Elihu Vedder (26 February 1836 – 29 January 1923) was an American symbolist painter, book illustrator and poet from New York City.


















