The Hermit c. 1883 - 1885

"The Hermit" is an oil painting by the American artist George Inness, created between 1883 and 1885. This painting captures the solitude of a lone figure, a hermit, seated in a wooded landscape. Inness's signature use of atmospheric light and muted colors creates a serene and contemplative mood. The hermit's figure is silhouetted against the background, emphasizing his isolation and connection to nature. The brushstrokes are loose and expressive, adding a sense of movement and depth to the composition. The work embodies the themes of spirituality and contemplation prevalent in Inness's later artistic career.