Cliff near Bolton, on the Winooski
October 1, 1864
Classification
landscapes
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Bequest of Erskine Hewitt
Accession Number
1942-50-304
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Daniel Huntington's *Cliff near Bolton, the Winooski*, on October 1, 1864, captures the rugged beauty of's Winooski River region near Bolton. As a landscape from the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection—bequeathed by Erskine Hewitt—this work reflects the mid-19th-century American fascination with the nation's pristine wilderness, even amid the turmoil of the Civil War. untington (1816–1906), a leading figure in American art and National Academician, was renowned for portraits, historical, and religious scenes, yet demonstrated versatility in landscapes like this one. Rooted in the Romantic tradition of the Hudson River School, his style likely emphasized dramatic natural forms—the towering cliff and flowing river—evoking awe at America's untamed landscapes. Such paintings celebrated national identity and the sublime power of nature. Though research continues, this piece highlights Huntington's skill in portraying everyday American scenery, inviting viewers to ponder the enduring allure of New England's rocky terrains during a pivotal era in U.S. history.