Who painted Evening on a River with a Boatman?

Evening on a River with a Boatman was painted by Charles A. Walker in 1885.

Where can I see Evening on a River with a Boatman?

Evening on a River with a Boatman is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Evening on a River with a Boatman?

Evening on a River with a Boatman is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Evening on a River with a Boatman

Charles A. Walker , 1885

Evening on a River with a Boatman is a graphite print by the Impressionist artist Charles A. Walker. It dates from 1885 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in plate: C A WALKER / 1885; lower right in graphite: C. A. Walker 85

About this work

Overview

Evening on a River with a Boatman is a monotype print executed in black and graphite on wove paper, dated 1885. The work is attributed to American artist Charles A. Walker and measures a modest size typical of his print output.

Subject & Meaning

The image depicts a tranquil river scene at twilight. A solitary boat glides close to the bank, flanked by tall reeds and other aquatic vegetation, while a dark line of trees marks the opposite shoreline beneath a softly clouded sky. The composition suggests a moment of quiet contemplation in a natural setting.

Technique & Style

Walker employed the monotype process, pressing ink onto paper to achieve bold, gestural marks. The use of graphite adds subtle tonal variation, while the overall handling of line and wash conveys the fleeting effects of light and shadow at dusk. The handling is loose, emphasizing atmosphere over detailed rendering.

History & Provenance

Created in 1885, the print is part of Walker’s late‑19th‑century output, a period when he explored printmaking alongside painting. It has been catalogued in several collections of American print art, though specific ownership records prior to its inclusion in museum holdings remain limited.