Welcome Shade. Keeley Halswelle ARSA, RI 1832-1891. 1884. Oil on canvas, 105.0 × 181.9 cm. Purchased 1887. Courtesy of the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, accession Number p.312.4-1.
This bucolic scene is reminiscent of Samuel Palmer in his visionary paintings and etchings, conveying the harmony of the natural scene. [Detail of sheep to the right of the tree trunk.] No farmer or shepherd is seen here, but the flock implies the human presence, while the rich provision of shade on a hot day suggests the simple optimism of Browning's heroine in "Pippa Passes," that "God's in his heaven / All's right in the world."
The gallery has kindly permitted this image to be downloaded "for publications and non-commercial use," but please see its copyright policy before reusing. Commentary and formatting by Jacqueline Banerjee. [Click on the images to enlarge them.]
Created 8 July 2020