Ox Team, Wharf at Matinicus by George Bellows
Description:
Ox Team, Wharf at Matinicus by George Bellows presents a vivid scene of maritime life, likely featuring an ox team at work on the wharf of Matinicus, a small island off the coast of Maine. Bellows, known for his dynamic portrayals of American life, captures the raw energy and grit of this coastal setting. His use of bold brushstrokes and strong contrasts conveys the bustling atmosphere of the wharf, with the oxen symbolizing both the labor-intensive nature of life on the island and the connection to the rugged American landscape. Bellows' attention to detail in the figures and landscape reflects his interest in realism and the working class, themes that pervade much of his work.
George Bellows, born in 1882 in Columbus, Ohio, was a prominent American realist painter, associated with the Ashcan School. He was celebrated for his depictions of urban and rural American scenes, capturing the vibrancy and energy of everyday life. His time spent in Maine influenced a series of works that explore the coastal and maritime life of the region, as seen in Ox Team, Wharf at Matinicus. Bellows' work often emphasized the relationship between humans and their environments, and this painting reflects his keen observation of the rugged, hardworking life of coastal communities.
Details:
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Location and Date Created: Matinicus Island, Maine, early 20th century.
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Medium: Oil on canvas.
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Full Artwork Name: Ox Team, Wharf at Matinicus.
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Artwork Style: American Realism.
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Subject/Topic: An ox team working on a wharf, symbolizing the labor and maritime life of Matinicus Island.