Autumn Landscape 

Robert Lewis Reid made this oil painting, titled "Autumn Landscape," during his time as an American Impressionist. Reid was part of the Ten American Painters, a group that broke away from the Society of American Artists in 1897 to create a space for more progressive styles. This landscape reflects a shift away from academic realism towards capturing fleeting moments and sensory impressions. The loose brushwork and focus on light and color evoke the changing season, very fashionable amongst collectors at the turn of the century. Reid’s landscapes offer a glimpse into the cultural values of the time, when there was a growing appreciation for nature as a source of inspiration and reflection. Art historians consult exhibition records, period publications, and artists’ personal papers to understand the social context of Reid’s work and its place within the broader art world. By considering these factors, we gain a deeper understanding of the role of art in shaping and reflecting society.