“Shoveling Snow, New England,” crafted by Childe Hassam in 1905, is an evocative example of the Impressionist movement, and depicts a serene winter landscape. The artwork poignantly captures the essence of rural New England with its snow-covered expanse and the everyday activity of shoveling snow.
In the artwork, two figures are engaged in the act of clearing snow, set against a backdrop of tall, barren trees and a distant homestead that is partially obscured by the wooded area. The sky exhibits the pale, muted tones typical of a winter’s day. The overall scene is imbued with a sense of tranquility, accentuated by the soft, diffuse light that is characteristic of Impressionist paintings. The delicate brushstrokes and the subtle play of colors evoke a palpable sense of cold and quietude, transporting the viewer to a cold, serene New England winter.