Artifact World Gallery
Get the iOS app

Artwork

Edge of the Woods

Edge of the Woods, oil, 1898
Edge of the Woods, oil, 1898

Edge of the Woods is an oil painting. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Technique & Style

Executed in 1894, Edge of the Woods is an oil painting on canvas. The work measures 90.2 cm in height and 67.3 cm in width. Created in Cleveland, the piece is classified as a painting and is currently held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

History & Provenance

While the museum's ownership and acquisition details are documented, the provided records do not list specific past exhibitions or loan history for this piece.

Edge of the Woods is an oil painting on canvas created in 1894 by the American artist John Semon. The work was produced in Cleveland, Ohio. It entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is cataloged under the accession number 1916.930, indicating the museum acquired the piece in 1916.

While earlier internal records listed the artist as unknown, current attribution identifies Semon, who lived from 1852 to 1917, as the creator.

Edge of the Woods is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, located in Cleveland. The institution acquired the oil on canvas painting in 1916, assigning it the accession number 1916.930. Created in 1894 by John Semon, the work measures 90.2 cm in height and approximately 67.3 cm in width.

While the museum's ownership and acquisition details are documented, the provided records do not list specific past exhibitions or loan history for this piece.

Overview

Edge of the Woods is an oil painting that presents a tranquil forest scene. A meandering stream runs centrally, flanked by densely packed trees and foliage that dominate the composition. The work’s surface is richly textured, a characteristic result of the oil medium, which contributes to a palpable sense of depth across the landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on a quiet natural setting, inviting contemplation of the interplay between water and woodland. The winding stream guides the eye inward, while the surrounding trees suggest a secluded, untouched environment. The overall mood is one of calm, emphasizing the subtle beauty of a forest edge rather than dramatic narrative.

Context

Rendered in a traditional landscape format, the painting reflects a continued interest in naturalistic representation that has persisted through various art movements. Its focus on atmospheric light and detailed foliage aligns it with works that prioritize observation of nature over overt symbolism.

Edge of the Woods
Edge of the Woods, John Semon

Artist & collection

VISUALLY SIMILAR

Similarity 100 percent
This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I see Edge of the Woods?

Edge of the Woods is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Edge of the Woods?

Edge of the Woods is associated with Impressionism.