The Burning of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 1867

Daniel Ridgway Knight's 1867 painting "The Burning of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania" depicts the aftermath of a devastating fire that occurred during the American Civil War. The scene is a stark contrast of light and shadow, with the glow of the flames illuminating the faces of the townspeople as they huddle together in despair and fear. Knight's masterful use of realism portrays the hardship and suffering endured by those affected by the war, capturing a poignant moment in American history. The artwork's detailed representation of the event, along with its emotional impact, has made it a significant piece in the history of American art.