Painting of Farmyard Scene with chickens, Oil on Canvas, Signed L.J. Cruise
Located in Downingtown, PA
"Farmyard Morning": Large Antique Oil on Canvas Painting of Chickens by Louis J. Cruise,
Dated 1911
A substantial and atmospheric early 20th-century oil on canvas painting, signed and dated by the noted Pennsylvania artist Louis J. Cruise (1861–1945) in 1911. This delightful genre scene captures the quiet activity of a traditional American farmyard, characterized by the artist's signature realistic style and serene composition.
The scene depicts a flock of chickens foraging in golden straw outside a rustic stone and timber barn. A magnificent rooster stands alert on a hay mound, watching over hens of various breeds—white, speckled, and brown—while one chicken emerges from the dark interior of the farm building. In the background, a wooden rail fence separates the yard from a lush green pasture and distant woods, with small birds perching casually on the rails and pecking at the straw. The work is housed in a wide, impressive gilt frame.
Markings: Signature: Signed and dated in the lower left corner: "L.J. Cruise / 1911".
Condition: Good antique condition. The canvas is well-composed and executed, capturing the play of light on the landscape.
Measurements:
Frame Height: 35 inches (88.9 cm)
Frame Width: 55 1/2 inches (141.0 cm)
Sight Height: 29 inches (73.7 cm)
Sight Width: 48 3/4 inches (123.8 cm)
Historical Context:
Louis J. Cruise (1861–1945) was a prolific American artist born in Bally, Berks County, Pennsylvania. He studied at the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Art Students League of New York. A member of the Philadelphia Sketch...
Category
Early 20th Century American American Classical Paintings
