Thomas Cole (American, 1801-1848)
The Angel Appearing to the
Shepherds, 1833-1834
Oil on canvas, 101-1/2 x 185-1/2 inches
Gift of Walter P. Chrysler, Jr., in Memory of Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch

This very large oil on canvas painting exhibits the Biblical story from the book of Luke. The upper left corner of the canvas is filled with the aura and light of the "heavenly host" as angels appear to the shepherds. The shepherds in the foreground hold three different postures. The first on his face, the second leans back holding out his arm and the third stands quietly facing the sight leaning on his staff. The dark sky of the background is illuminated by a single bright star hovering over an unseen nativity.

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