Description
William Merritt Chase's painting Asters is a masterpiece of American Impressionism that has captivated art lovers since its creation in 1887. This work is a perfect example of Chase's artistic style, characterized by his ability to capture light and the color of nature in his paintings.
The composition of Asters is impressive, with a flower arrangement in the foreground extending into the background of the painting. Chase uses a loose, rapid brushstroke technique to create a sense of movement and life in the work. The vibrant, saturated colors of the asters contrast against the dark background, creating a sense of depth and dimension.
The story behind the painting is fascinating. Chase was known for his love of nature, and his garden in Shinnecock Hills, Long Island, was a source of inspiration for many of his works. Asters was painted in his studio in New York, but the asters featured in the painting are believed to have been collected from his garden on Long Island.
A little known aspect of the painting is that Chase painted it at a transitional time in his career. Asters was painted shortly after Chase returned from Europe, where he had studied with the great masters of French Impressionism. The influence of the French Impressionists is evident in Chase's technique on Asters, but it also shows his ability to create his own unique style.
In short, William Merritt Chase's Asters is a stunning work of art that combines impressionistic technique with Chase's ability to capture the beauty of nature. The composition, color, and story behind the painting make it a work of art worth looking at and appreciating.