Toward the Close of Day »

William Crothers Fitler

View Full Size

• 
• 
• 
• 

About The Artwork

Tonalist paintings evoke the viewer's emotional response which is an entirely different intent when compared to a detailed depiction focused on chronicling a specific place. The visceral response is conveyed or shared versus photographic detail. I have lived with a lovely Tonalist painting in my home for over 12 years, so I can assure you Tonalist paintings are entirely comfortable to co-exist with. They have a gentle grace I find entirely peaceful. More than four years ago "Close of Day" another sensitive Tonalist painting by Fitler, measuring 12" X 16" sold at Sotheby's Arcade for $5,100. The original paper label for this painting having been exhibited at the Salmagundi Club is attached to the painting's stretcher bar.

About The Artist

Cited as a Tonalist landscape painter and illustrator, this artist was born in Philadelphia in 1857. A student at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, he became a member of the Salmagundi Club in 1881. This artist also joined the New York Water Color Club, the Kit-Kat Club, the Brooklyn Art Association (1881-1886). the Artists Fund Society and the New York Municipal Art Society. Fitler exhibited widely to include the National Academy (1880-1907), Brooklyn Art Club (1881-1886), Boston Art Club (181-1908), the Pennsylvania Academy (1879-1898) and the Art Institute of Chicago (1889 - 1911). Most of Fitler's works were painted in the countryside of Connecticut, in New York and in Long Island. IN 1901 he married the accomplished painter Claude Raguet Hirst. The above was taken from Who Was Who in American Art 1564-1975 400 Years of Artists in America by Peter Falk.

Other Works By Artist: