Artwork
The Indian and the Lily
The Indian and the Lily is an oil painting by George de Forest Brush. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.
About this work
Overview
The Indian and the Lily is an 1894 oil painting by George de Forest Brush, an American artist known for figure paintings. The work is characterized by a serene depiction of a man interacting with nature, executed in a contrasting color palette that emphasizes depth.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays a man crouching by a pond, wearing distinctive attire including yellow moccasins and a white feathered cape, as he gently reaches to touch a water lily. The peaceful pose and lighting convey a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.
Technique & Style
Brush employed a striking juxtaposition of dark background tones with the lighter, more vibrant hues of the subject and flowers, creating a pronounced sense of depth and visual contrast. The use of oil paint allowed for rich, detailed textures.
History & Provenance
Created in 1894, The Indian and the Lily is part of the collection at the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The artist's broader body of work includes later collaborations with his family on military camouflage techniques.
Context
While the artist's political leanings as a Georgist are documented, the painting itself does not overtly convey these beliefs, instead focusing on a serene, naturalistic scene. The work reflects Brush's skill in figure painting, a hallmark of his early career.
Legacy
The Indian and the Lily represents a notable example of Brush's figure painting style. For further insight into the artist's diverse contributions, exploring his biography and other works is recommended.
Artist & collection
Artist
George de Forest Brush (September 28, 1855 – April 24, 1941) was an American painter and Georgist.
Museum
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art
Continue through works from the same source collection.
Lovers (Indian Love Song)
The Fire-Eater Slung His Victim Across His Pony
Handsome Morning -- A Dakota
The Outlier
The Scalplock
The Blanket Signal
Pitched It Sheer into the River . . . Where It Still Is Seen in the Summer
Gathering Lilies
The Fire Eater Raised His Arms to the Thunder Bird
The Herd Boy
Boy Chief - Ojibbeway
I Will Tell the White Man