Opening of the Wilderness
1858
oil
From the collection of Museum of Fine Arts Boston
1858
oil
From the collection of Museum of Fine Arts Boston
This painting depicts a serene landscape with a train crossing a bridge over a river. The scene is set in a wooded area, with trees and hills in the background. In the foreground, there are large rocks and bushes surrounding the river. The train is emitting smoke as it travels across the bridge. The sky above is cloudy, with a yellow glow suggesting either sunrise or sunset. The overall atmosphere of the painting is one of tranquility, with the natural beauty of the landscape taking center stage. For more information on the artist's use of light and shadow, look up the technique of chiaroscuro.