Lake View with Dinghy [Long Lake?] (from Sketchbook) 1857 - 1867

This pencil drawing, Lake View with Dinghy, comes from a sketchbook by Thomas Hewes Hinckley, an American artist active in the 19th century. Hinckley, celebrated for his paintings of animals, especially dogs, also captured the serene landscapes of his time. In this delicate sketch, we see a quiet lake scene, a small dinghy resting on the shore, and a wooded island in the distance, which invites us to reflect on themes of nature and tranquility. During the 1800’s the Hudson River School movement was in full swing, emphasizing the beauty of the American landscape and promoting a sense of national identity, as people moved West. The artist's choice to focus on a peaceful lake, may reflect a desire to capture the unspoiled beauty of the American landscape during a period of rapid industrialization and social change. Hinckley invites viewers to appreciate the quiet grandeur of nature, fostering a sense of connection to the land and its inherent value.