Facing the Enemy
Oil on canvas by the American painter Francis William Edmonds. This painting, owned by the Chrysler Museum, was first exhibited at the National Academy of Design, New York in 1845.
The scene depicts a joiner leaning back in his chair as he contemplates a decanter of spirits near the window. On the wall is a handbill advertising a Temperance Reform Meeting.
Edmonds was concerned that artisans were especially susceptible to alcoholism. His painting was engraved by Thomas Doney in 1847 to illustrate a sermonizing circular by the Temperance Society.
Jeff, My wife and I love the paintings you share. She’s even used a couple in her art history classes she teaches. Thanks and keep them coming.
Beer is an integral part of the design, construction and delivery process in my shop.
“Scientists and historians line up to tell the amazing, untold story of how beer helped create math, poetry, pyramids, modern medicine, labor laws, and America.” – How Beer Saved the World Documentary
That’s a rather touching painting. I suspect there’s symbolism buried in the details. He seems to be pushing away from the temptation and almost close to tipping over.
I apprenticed in 1981-3 with an elderly gentleman, E. Townsend Moore, who was a former curator at Wintertur, and an heir of Thos.Treat Hogg and the Chester County furniture tradition. He stopped work promptly every day at noon for his Bloody Mary and short nap.
–Wm. Brown
Forest, VA
This painting is often misinterpreted. He is lamenting the damage the incoming light is doing to the alcohol and planning how he will mitigate said damage.
The message I get is that spirits and chair tipping don’t mix. Selective art interpretation….