Cloud and Sunset Study 

William Bradford created this oil on canvas study of clouds and sunset. The image presents a panoramic landscape with rolling hills under a dynamic sky. The dramatic use of light and shadow plays a key role, typical of the artistic conventions of the 19th century. In the context of its time, Cloud and Sunset Study reflects a culture deeply engaged with the natural world. In both Europe and America landscape painting was very popular, and it had a complex relation to ideas of land ownership and national identity. Artists, writers and politicians were all keen to develop a sense of belonging to the land. It is a complex artistic space. It has been the work of art historians to explore the ideological and social forces underlying such images. Research into exhibition records, patronage, and period reviews can offer insights into the artwork's role at that time.