A Panic 1872

Henry William Banks Davis made this painting, A Panic, using oil paint on canvas. The canvas provides a woven, tactile ground for the artist's representation. In looking at this painting, the very materiality of oil paint lends itself to the visceral rendering of the scene. Consider how Davis handles the paint to capture the texture of the cattle's fur. Notice the thick impasto strokes that mimic the animals' forms. This technique not only adds depth but also conveys a sense of movement and urgency, capturing the energy and chaos of the herd. The careful layering and blending of oil paint demonstrates the artist's skill and understanding of his medium. Yet, paintings like this should also remind us of the social context of agricultural labor and the market value of livestock. The sheer amount of work it would take to render each animal in such detail suggests an appreciation for the labor and effort involved in cattle farming. By emphasizing the materials, making, and context of this painting, we can fully appreciate its significance beyond traditional artistic boundaries.