Artwork
The Voyage of Life: Childhood
The Voyage of Life: Childhood is an ink print by the Impressionist artist James Smillie. It dates from 1855 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left in plate: T Cole; text at bottom in plate: Painted by Thomas Cole / Boston - Published by B. B. Russell. 55 Cornhill. / Engraved by James Smillie / The Voyage of Life _ Childhood. / From the original Painting by Thomas Cole, in the possession of Revd. Gorham D. Abbott, Spingler Institute, New York. / "Who shall preserve thee beautiful child? / Keep thee as thou art now / Bring thee a spirit undefiled / At God's pure throne to bow? / This world is but a bruised reed / And life grows early dim / Who shall be near thee in thy need / To lead thee up to him? / He who Himself was undefiled / With Him we trust thee beautiful child." / Proof / "Entered according to Act of Congress U.S.A. _ by James Smillie in the Clerks Office of the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York." / Printed by J. H. Daniels, Boston.
About this work
Overview
The Voyage of Life: Childhood is an engraving on wove paper, produced by James Smillie around 1855. It depicts a serene scene of a small boat with two figures on calm water, set against a backdrop of steep cliffs covered in dense green foliage and illuminated patches, with a partially cloudy sky. A figure in the boat holds a glowing lantern, casting a warm light on the water.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates the initial stage of a symbolic journey, as indicated by its title. The calm atmosphere and guiding lantern suggest protection and guidance during the early life stage represented.
Technique & Style
Created using engraving techniques, the work showcases Smillie's use of sharp tools to etch detailed designs onto a metal plate, subsequently printed in black on wove paper. The interplay of light and shadow, particularly from the lantern, demonstrates the artist's skill in conveying depth and mood through line work and tonal variation.
History & Provenance
Produced circa 1855 by James Smillie, specific details about the work's commission, exhibition history, or current location are not provided in the available information.
Context
Part of a broader allegorical series, 'The Voyage of Life,' this engraving reflects 19th-century artistic tendencies towards symbolic, life-cycle narratives. The use of a journey metaphor for life stages was common during this period, often conveying moral or philosophical themes.
Legacy
While specific impacts or notable exhibitions of 'The Voyage of Life: Childhood' are not detailed here, as part of an allegorical series, it contributes to the enduring theme of life's stages in art, influencing subsequent representations of similar narratives.
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