The Triumph of Music 1845

Robert William Buss created 'The Triumph of Music', using oil paint, a medium that allowed him to build up layers of color and detail. Notice how Buss uses the fluidity of oil to blend the figures seamlessly into the sky background, creating a sense of lightness and movement. The figures are not just painted, they're constructed through delicate brushwork that captures the texture of their skin, wings, and clothing. The artist clearly drew inspiration from the Renaissance tradition, evident in the cherubic figures and idealized forms. The smooth finish of the oil paint lends a classical feel, but it also speaks to the values of the Victorian era, where polished surfaces and refined details were highly prized. The artwork's composition is complex and would have required careful planning, from preparing the canvas, mixing paints, and the labor of applying the brushstrokes to the canvas. Buss's attention to detail and skill reflect a commitment to his craft, and the value placed on artistic skill and craftsmanship in the 19th century.