19th Century Oil on Board "Tired Out" by Howard Eaton Helmick (American 1845-1907)

Description

This delightful oil on board titled "Tired Out" by Howard Helmick depicts a young man sleeping in a pile of … more This delightful oil on board titled "Tired Out" by Howard Helmick depicts a young man sleeping in a pile of hay, with a pastoral country scene just beyond the barn's entryway. Housed in a giltwood frame, the artist's signature is located on the lower left corner, as well as on the back of the board along with the title.

Howard Eaton Helmick (1845-1907) was a highly accomplished American painter, etcher, designer, and illustrator brought up on a farm in Ohio. He was best known for his genre painting, using scenes from the peasant life of Ireland as topics for his greatest works. Helmick studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (from 1862-64), and subsequently gained admission to the Beaux Arts, being the second foreigner who was ever received there. He studied there under the guidance of the master Alexandre Cabanel and swiftly made a name for himself. He exhibited at the Salon in Paris in 1869 and at London's Royal Academy. By 1879 he was an elected member of the Society of British Artists, and by 1881 the Society of Painter Etchers. He spent his life traveling and setting up studios in idyllic landscapes across France, England, and —most notably— Ireland.

Helmick stayed in cottages throughout Europe's countryside, finding inspiration for his paintings amongst the natural beauty and rural culture. Helmick's use of narrative to frame his stage-like scenes invites the viewer to interpret and reflect on the subject's activities. These sensabilties can be seen readily in this artwork; the straw hat strewn on the ground, a sumptuous pile of hay, and a young peasant boy in a deep slumber. As suggested by the title, tired, perhaps, from a long day at work or play. His lips are slightly parted, hand curled, huddled in a comfortable pose up against the pile, and feet dug gently into strands of hay. He has a simple wardrobe composed of a white blouse, blue trousers, and a straw hat. In the corner, a view of the pasture with a far-off horizon, painted in enchanting dewy hues signifying early dusk.

Housed in an exquisitely carved period frame – a work of art in itself. This gorgeous piece resides in an ornate Louis XIII Baroque-style frame. The frame is adorned by corner rocaille cartouches, central alternating bead trim, and scrolling trim on the top edge. Louis XIII frames are characterized by a close bonding of ornamentation to the profile and straight rails with decorative borders.

This cozy scene invites the comfort of the pastoral into any space. This painting would be a lovely addition to a bedroom, library, or living room.

With Frame: H=14 in. W=12 in. D=2.5 in. 5 lbs.
Panel: H=8.5 in. W=7 in. less