An October Day 1881

"An October Day," an etching created by Robert Swain Gifford in 1881, showcases the artist's masterful use of tonal values to depict a serene autumnal landscape. The composition features a group of trees on a sand dune, the details of which are rendered with delicate precision. Gifford, a prominent member of the Hudson River School, was renowned for his depictions of nature, particularly its atmospheric qualities, making "An October Day" a fine example of his work in this genre. The subtle details of the etching, such as the birds in flight, contribute to a peaceful and contemplative mood.