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Richmond Slave Market Auction, by Lefevre James Cranstone, oil, 1862

Richmond Slave Market Auction

Lefevre James Cranstone

1862

oil

canvas

From the collection of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

Dominant colour

Overview

Richmond Slave Market Auction is a 1862 oil by Lefevre James Cranstone, held at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.

Who painted this?
Lefevre James Cranstone
When & what style?
1862
Where can I see it?
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

About this work

This painting depicts a crowded room with people gathered around a central figure, possibly an auctioneer. The room is filled with individuals of various ages and genders, all dressed in clothing from the 19th century. The atmosphere appears tense, with some people looking on with concern or sadness. In the foreground, a group of people are seated on the floor, while others stand around them. The room is dimly lit, with only a few windows allowing natural light to enter. The overall mood of the painting is one of solemnity and gravity. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume in the scene, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure. The painting is a powerful depiction of a historical event, and its use of light and shadow adds to its emotional impact. You might want to look up more paintings by Lefevre James Cranstone.

About the artist

Portrait of Lefevre James Cranstone
Artist

Lefevre James Cranstone

Lefevre James Cranstone (6 March 1822 – 22 June 1893) was an English artist known for his watercolor genre-style landscapes and oil paintings.

See the richer artist page

More by Lefevre James Cranstone

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