William Rickarby Miller
American
William Rickarby Miller, the son of English landscape painter Joseph Miller, immigrated to America and settled in New York City in 1844. Miller was a highly disciplined artist, working expertly in watercolor, oil, and pen and ink. He lived a relatively quiet and secluded life, keeping homes near Central Park and on Long Island. He also regularly traveled to Virginia, the Hudson River Valley, and Niagara Falls for artistic inspiration.
Born
1818
Died
1893
How can we see the passage of time?
In this still life, the artist shows an apple tree’s leaves and stems in every stage from freshness to decay, prompting the viewer to think about the cycle of life and death. The darkened leaves and stems contrast with the round, bright apples, which seem even more tempting and delicious by comparison.
Medium
Oil on canvas
Credit
Bequest of Whitney Warren, Jr., in memory of Mrs. Adolph Spreckels to The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
Item ID
1988.10.1
Dimensions
6 1/2 x 13 in. (16.5 x 33 cm)
Date
1862
Country
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Artist name
William Rickarby Miller
Artwork location