Ice Gatherers (Primary Title)
William Tylee Ranney, American, 1813-1857 (Artist)
Like his contemporary Jacob Miller, Ranney is most closely associated with views of the American frontier, but he also painted genre scenes near his home in New Jersey. In Ice Gatherers , two figures have ventured out on a frozen pond under a placid winter sky, capturing the attention of five curious cows. Though the title clearly refers to the cautious harvesting of ice depicted in this humorous courtship scene, it is also a reference to the colloquial term “breaking the ice.” Ranney’s suitor, however, appears to be unsuccessful in his attempts at engaging the dour-looking woman in conversation. Such comical subjects were very popular with American audiences at midcentury.
At lower right: Wm. Ranney 1856
James W. and Frances Gibson McGlothlin Collection
"American Art from the McGlothlin Collection" Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (1 May - 18 July 2010).
"An American Gallery: Spring 1987," Richard York Gallery, New York, NY (1987).
"An American Gallery: Spring 1987," Richard York Gallery, New York, NY (1987).
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
