A Friendly Warning 1881 - 1890

"A Friendly Warning," painted by Thomas Hicks between 1881 and 1890, depicts a scene of four men gathered around a stove in a sparsely furnished room. The painting, currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, presents a snapshot of everyday life during the late 19th century. Hicks's attention to detail, particularly in capturing the men's clothing and expressions, adds to the realism of the scene. The painting is a fine example of American genre painting, known for its portrayal of everyday life and social commentary.