Artwork

The Moon of San Gimignano

The Moon of San Gimignano, by John Lorin Black, 1929
The Moon of San Gimignano, by John Lorin Black, 1929

The Moon of San Gimignano is a drawing by John Lorin Black. It dates from 1929 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1929.1977

About this work

Overview

The Moon of San Gimignano, a 1929 drawing by John Lorin Black, is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. It depicts a serene, sunlit scene in San Gimignano, featuring a woman, a child, and the town's distinctive architecture.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing focuses on a everyday moment: a woman in yellow and red attire, carrying a basket, accompanied by a child in a red shirt holding a bucket. The scene conveys a sense of quiet, daily life amidst the historic setting of San Gimignano.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose brushstrokes, the work captures a spontaneous, lively atmosphere. The interplay of bright light and soft shadows, achieved through chiaroscuro, imbues the scene with warmth and depth.

History & Provenance

Created in 1929 by John Lorin Black, the drawing is currently housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, with no detailed provenance provided beyond its current ownership.

Context

The work reflects the artist's interest in capturing the essence of Italian towns, highlighting the contrast between the simplicity of daily life and the grandeur of San Gimignano's medieval architecture.

Legacy

While specific impact or notable exhibitions of 'The Moon of San Gimignano' are not highlighted, it contributes to the broader appreciation of 20th-century artistic interpretations of Italian landscapes and daily life.

Stradă mizeră
Stradă mizeră, Alexandru Phoebus

Artist & collection

Artist

John Lorin Black

John Lorin Black (1894–1963) was an American artist.

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Moon of San Gimignano?

The Moon of San Gimignano was painted by John Lorin Black in 1929.

Where can I see The Moon of San Gimignano?

The Moon of San Gimignano is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.