Figure study for ‘The Hours’- ; sketch for mural for the state capitol building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 1902-1911
A hand-painted replica of Edwin Austin Abbey’s masterpiece Figure study for ‘The Hours’- ; sketch for mural for the state capitol building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 1902-1911, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
Edwin Austin Abbey's Figure Study for ‘The Hours’ is a preparatory sketch created between 1902 and 1911 as part of his work on a mural for the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg. Abbey, an American painter and illustrator, was commissioned to design and execute a series of murals for the Capitol's interior, a project that became one of the most significant undertakings of his career. The murals were intended to reflect themes of history, progress, and the passage of time, aligning with the grandeur and purpose of the building.
The sketch, Figure Study for ‘The Hours’, represents Abbey's meticulous process of planning and refining his compositions before executing the final murals. As was typical of his working method, Abbey created numerous preparatory studies to explore the arrangement, poses, and details of the figures that would populate his large-scale works. This particular study focuses on the allegorical representation of "The Hours," a concept often depicted in art to symbolize the passage of time or the cyclical nature of life.
Abbey's work for the Pennsylvania State Capitol is widely regarded as a masterpiece of mural painting in the United States. The murals, including the final version of The Hours, were executed in the grand staircase and other prominent areas of the Capitol. They reflect Abbey's deep engagement with historical and allegorical themes, as well as his skill in creating complex, multi-figure compositions. His work drew inspiration from the traditions of Renaissance and Baroque muralists, blending classical techniques with his own distinctive style.
The figure studies, such as this one, provide insight into Abbey's artistic process and his dedication to achieving a harmonious and meaningful composition. They also demonstrate his ability to convey emotion and narrative through the human form. While the final mural for which this sketch was created remains in situ at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, the preparatory works, including Figure Study for ‘The Hours’, are valued as standalone pieces of art and as documents of Abbey's creative process.
Edwin Austin Abbey's contributions to the Pennsylvania State Capitol murals solidified his reputation as one of the leading muralists of his time. His work continues to be celebrated for its technical excellence and its ability to convey complex themes through allegory and symbolism.
