First Sailing of the Griffin on Lake Erie. August 7, 1679
George Catlin I, 1847/1848
- Artist
- George Catlin I
- Date
- 1847/1848
- Type
- Painting
- Medium
- oil on canvas
- Dimensions
- 37.8 × 56.5 cm
- Collection
- National Gallery of Art, Washington
- Licence
- Public domain, CC0
Image description
The painting depicts a coastal scene with various maritime and terrestrial activities. The horizon is high in the composition, with a sky displaying golden and orange hues. In the foreground, there are multiple small boats with figures and a larger ship further out. The brushstrokes are detailed and capture movement. The color palette includes turquoise waters, warm sky tones, green coastal foliage, and earthy land colors. In the distance, figures are gathered along the shore, with teepees visible further back.