Artwork

December

December, by Henry Farrer, ink, 1877
December, by Henry Farrer, ink, 1877

December is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Henry Farrer. It dates from 1877 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in plate: H. Farrer 1877; lower center in graphite by unknown hand: "December"

About this work

Overview

December is a black etching on laid paper by Henry Farrer, produced in 1877, capturing a serene winter scene.

Subject & Meaning

The etching portrays a peaceful snow-covered landscape with a winding path, bare trees, and a solitary figure (likely a woman) walking in the distance, conveying a sense of stillness and life in harmony with nature.

Technique & Style

Farrer employed etching to achieve a textured, depthful rendering, characterized by a nuanced gray-scale palette. The delicate lines and subtle shading align with Impressionist sensibilities, emphasizing capturing the fleeting effects of the natural world.

History & Provenance

Created in 1877, specific details about the artwork's provenance and exhibition history are not provided in the available information.

Context

Emerging in the late 19th century, 'December' reflects the era's artistic shift towards capturing everyday life and natural environments, with the Impressionist influence evident in its technique.

Legacy

While 'December' showcases Farrer's skill in etching and his alignment with Impressionist ideals, its broader impact or notable appearances in art historical discourse are not detailed in the provided sources.

Sunset
Sunset, Alphonse Legros

Artist & collection

Portrait of Henry Farrer

Artist

Henry Farrer

American, London 1844–1903 New York

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted December?

December was painted by Henry Farrer in 1877.

Where can I see December?

December is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is December?

December is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of December?

Museum-quality prints of December are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.