Butterflies
Artist
Edward Atkinson Hornel
(Bacchus Marsh, Victoria, Australia, 1864 - 1933)
Date1908
Mediumoil on canvas
ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings
DimensionsOverall: Height: 153.5 cm, Width: 184.5 cm
Frame: Height: 173 cm, Width: 204 cm
Weight: 77kg
Frame: Height: 173 cm, Width: 204 cm
Weight: 77kg
AcquisitionPresented in 1927 by Sir James Murray.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationOn Loan
Object numberABDAG002799
About MeIf one compares Hornel's early work such as 'The Music Party' with 'Butterflies', it is easy to see how his style changed quite dramatically. His work of the 1890's is very Japanese in style and the paint surface is rich and buttery. This altered after a trip to Antwerp, where he was taught to handle paint vigorously 'so that one was painting and drawing at the same time'. His painting style became thick impasto which was broken up into blotches through the technique of painting with a palette knife. This became Hornel's trademark as did his highly decorative, sophisticated style.More About Me
Despite the painting’s name, there are only a few butterflies visible. The main focus is the four young girls and their joyful interaction with the nature around them.
Qing Dynasty, late 19th century
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
Keith Henderson
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
possibly early 20th Century
Agnes Miller Parker
