The artwork titled “Abe Lincoln’s First Book” was created by Horace Pippin in 1944. This piece belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and is categorized under the genre of history painting.
In “Abe Lincoln’s First Book,” the artist depicts a young Abraham Lincoln engrossed in reading by the dim light of a candle. The simplicity of the surroundings and the uncluttered space emphasize Lincoln’s solitary concentration. The darkness enveloping the scene casts a stark contrast to the illuminated figure, highlighting the importance of the book in the young Abraham’s life. The candlelight subtly reflects on his figure, symbolizing the enlightenment and knowledge he seeks. This artwork reflects a moment of quiet determination and the formative experiences of a historical figure.
