Frederic Marlett Bell-Smith English Canadian, 1846-1923
Further images
Measuring 12.3 x 18.5 inches and painted on Academy Board, this artwork transports viewers to the peaceful banks of a gently flowing river. The artist's precise brushwork and keen attention to detail bring the scene to life, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere.
In "By the River," Bell-Smith skillfully renders the interplay of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and dimension within the composition. The reflection of the surrounding trees and sky in the calm waters of the river adds a sense of tranquility and harmony to the scene.
Through this painting, Bell-Smith invites viewers to pause and appreciate the beauty of the natural world. "By the River" serves as a timeless reminder of the restorative power of nature and the simple joys found in moments of quiet contemplation by the water's edge.
Academy boards began to be sold around 1835 by Winsor and Newton. They were manufactured from pulp board and primed with a lead
pigment in a light gray or white color. To solve problems with warping,
they were sometimes primed equally on the back surface.
Source: The American Artist's Tools and Materials for On-Site Oil Sketching by Alexander Katlan, Journal of the American Institute for Conservation