Top Hat and Tails (1923) by Norman Rockwell

Top Hat and Tails - Norman Rockwell - 1923

Artwork Information

TitleTop Hat and Tails
ArtistNorman Rockwell
Date1923
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions71.8 x 84.5 cm
Art MovementRegionalism
Current LocationPrivate Collection

About Top Hat and Tails

The artwork titled “Top Hat and Tails” was created by the artist Norman Rockwell in the year 1923. This piece is rendered in oil on canvas, measuring 71.8 by 84.5 centimeters. Belonging to the Regionalism movement, which is often known for portraying American rural life in an illustrative and narratively rich manner, it fits within the genre painting category. The artwork was originally made accessible to the public, but it is currently housed in a private collection.

The artwork depicts a young boy standing in an attic-like space, filled with various objects that suggest a past of wealth or significance. These objects, now stored or discarded, include the prominent top hat and tailcoat, which the boy has donned with a look of aspiration or imagination on his face. A mirror is situated to his side, reflecting the boy’s profile and adding a sense of depth and introspection to the scene. Adjacent to this mirror is an attentive dog, who seems to be reacting to the boy’s activity or demeanor. The lighting within the piece is dramatic, with a strong light source casting deep shadows and highlighting the boy’s expression and the textures of his clothing. The boy’s stance—holding a cane, wearing a vest that is ornate and somewhat old-fashioned—creates an air of maturity at odds with his youthful visage, offering commentary on the themes of innocence, aspiration, and the passage of time. The dynamism of Rockwell’s brushwork and the rich, emotional narrative evident in the artwork are characteristic of the artist’s celebrated style.

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