Ignis Fatuus, Rio Uruguay 1854 - 1869

George Catlin's "Ignis Fatuus, Rio Uruguay" is a captivating oil on canvas that portrays the mysterious and ethereal phenomenon of "will-o'-the-wisp" in the dark landscape. The painting, created between 1854 and 1869, showcases a shadowed scene with a fiery glow emanating from the water, representing the spectral light of the natural phenomenon. The composition focuses on the interplay of light and darkness, emphasizing the eerie ambiance of the natural world. This artwork is an example of Catlin's fascination with the natural world and his skillful rendering of atmospheric effects.