
Study for figure of 8 am in ‘The Hours’ ceiling at the state capitol building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
A hand-painted replica of Edwin Austin Abbey’s masterpiece Study for figure of 8 am in ‘The Hours’ ceiling at the state capitol building in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 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 Study for Figure of 8 AM in ‘The Hours’ Ceiling is a preparatory work for one of the panels in the grand mural cycle located in the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg. Abbey, an American artist renowned for his murals and illustrations, was commissioned in the early 20th century to create a series of paintings for the Capitol's interior, including the elaborate ceiling mural titled The Hours in the building's main rotunda.
The mural The Hours represents the passage of time through allegorical figures, each symbolizing a specific hour of the day. The figure of "8 AM" is one of these personifications, depicted in Abbey's study as part of his meticulous planning process for the larger composition. Abbey was known for his detailed preparatory studies, which allowed him to refine the poses, drapery, and overall design of his figures before executing them on a monumental scale.
The Pennsylvania State Capitol, completed in 1906, is celebrated for its Beaux-Arts architecture and richly decorated interiors, which include contributions from several prominent artists of the period. Abbey's murals, including The Hours, are considered a highlight of the building's artistic program. His work reflects the influence of European traditions in mural painting, particularly the techniques and styles of the Italian Renaissance.
Abbey's studies, such as the one for "8 AM," were typically executed in oil or pencil and served as a critical step in his creative process. These studies not only demonstrate his skill as a draftsman but also provide insight into his approach to composition and symbolism. The figure of "8 AM" likely embodies themes associated with the early morning, such as renewal, productivity, or awakening, though the specific attributes of the figure are defined within the context of the larger mural.
Edwin Austin Abbey passed away in 1911, before he could see the completion of all his planned works for the Capitol. However, his contributions remain an integral part of the building's artistic legacy. The Study for Figure of 8 AM is valued both as a standalone artwork and as a preparatory piece that connects to the broader narrative of Abbey's murals in the Pennsylvania State Capitol.