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In this illustration for Mrs. Henry Dudeney’s short story “An Amazing Belief,” written for Harper’s New Monthly Magazine in April 1905, Pyle has created a dynamic, emotional work of art. As reproduction processes improved, Pyle turned increasingly away from pen and ink toward the expressive and coloristic properties of oil painting, working in a style of dramatic realism and symbolism. By emphasizing the fear-stricken faces of his subjects, Pyle’s ability to render facial expressions and active poses has captured the drama of the moment.
Howard Pyle
(American, 1853 - 1911)
They Stood Staring at the Violent Sky
1905
24 × 16 1/4 in. (61 × 41.3 cm)
79.15
Purchased with funds provided by Mrs. Carl Shirley, 1979
Not on view
Howard Pyle’s success as an illustrator and writer resulted from his ability to create a realistic sense of drama and action. Pyle emphasized the importance of knowing a subject well before attempting to paint it. This foundational principle of his teaching influenced the work of N.C. Wyeth, Peter Hurd, Elizabeth Shippen Green, and many other successful artists.
In this illustration for Mrs. Henry Dudeney’s short story “An Amazing Belief,” written for Harper’s New Monthly Magazine in April 1905, Pyle has created a dynamic, emotional work of art. As reproduction processes improved, Pyle turned increasingly away from pen and ink toward the expressive and coloristic properties of oil painting, working in a style of dramatic realism and symbolism. By emphasizing the fear-stricken faces of his subjects, Pyle’s ability to render facial expressions and active poses has captured the drama of the moment.
Felix Octavius Carr Darley
ca. 1859