An Early Stroll in the Park 1890

"An Early Stroll in the Park," was made by William Merritt Chase using oil on canvas. Chase’s loose brushwork and focus on capturing light are hallmarks of the Impressionist style. Chase isn't just representing the upper classes at leisure; he's also subtly referencing the means of their comfort. The immaculate park speaks to landscape architecture, stone masonry, and the labor required to maintain such a carefully manicured public space. In the late 19th century, the Impressionists turned painting into a modern craft, emphasizing the artist's touch. Look closely, and you'll notice how Chase's application of paint is visible, each stroke a record of his action. By focusing on the act of painting itself, artists like Chase elevated their own work, blurring the lines between the skills of craft and the expression of fine art.