The artwork titled “Upper Falls of the Yellowstone,” created by Thomas Moran, is a representation of the Romanticism art movement and falls under the landscape genre.
The artwork captures the grandeur of the Upper Falls in Yellowstone National Park. It features a cascading waterfall that dramatically descends from rugged cliffs. The cliffs are depicted with warm hues of brown and gold, contrasting against the cool blues and whites of the falling water. The mist from the waterfall creates a sense of movement and energy, encapsulating the sublime, a key element of Romanticism. In the foreground, detailed textures of rocks and vegetation are meticulously rendered, adding depth to the composition. The interplay of light and shadow, along with the vivid colors and intricate details, evoke a sense of awe and wonder, characteristic of Romantic landscapes. The overall composition underscores the power and beauty of the natural world, inviting viewers to appreciate the magnificence of untouched landscapes.