Wild Swans Sacred to Apollo 1921

Childe Hassam’s painting presents a scene with wild swans, probably made with oils. The painting is made with a real looseness of mark making, particularly in the scrubby foreground. It's like he’s trying to record an impression rather than a perfect depiction. The color palette is quite muted and earthy, mostly browns and blues, giving it a kind of classical feel, which feels appropriate given the title. Looking at the texture, the paint seems applied pretty thinly, almost like a stain in places, which lets the surface breathe. The gestures in the foreground create this chaotic energy that contrasts with the serene figures by the water. I find it interesting how he suggests form with just a few strokes, especially in the figures. It reminds me of some of Manet’s work, where the figure becomes part of the landscape. I think it’s art that embraces the sketchiness, and invites us to complete the image in our minds.