The artwork, titled “Bailed Up,” was created by artist Tom Roberts in 1895. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece is a fine example of Impressionism and falls within the genre painting category. Measuring 182.8 by 134.5 centimeters, the artwork is housed in the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) in Sydney, Australia.
“Bailed Up” depicts a historical scene of a bushranger hold-up in the Australian outback. The tableau captures the moment with vivid detail, focusing on a stagecoach that has been stopped by bushrangers. The coach is laden with passengers, some appearing distressed while others show a resigned calm. The rugged landscape, predominantly in earthy tones, forms a stark backdrop against which the human drama unfolds. The sparse trees and dry terrain emphasize the isolation and vulnerability of the travelers, heightening the tension of the scene. Tom Roberts expertly uses light and shadow to bring the narrative to life, making the viewer feel as if they are witnessing the event firsthand.
