Thomas Birch: Southeast View of "Sedgeley Park"

 

Thomas Birch (1779 - 1851)
Southeast View of "Sedgeley Park," the Country Seat of James Cowles Fisher, Esq. ca.
oil on canvas
87.00 X 99.99 cm
1819

Birch came to America in 1794 from England, assisting his father William Birch with a twenty-nine plate collection of engravings. His family settled in Pennsylvania. He was known for landscapes, some of his famous work is from the naval battles of the War of 1812.

"The natural advantages of Sedgley Park are not frequently equalled, even upon the banks of the Schuylkill. From the height upon which the mansion is erected it commands an interesting and extensive view. The scenery around is of unusual beauty, but its character is altogether peaceful and quiet." - contemporary artist


Birch depicts Sedgeley Park as the first American home in the Greek style. The architect who designed it was Benjamin Henry Latrobe. James Fisher the estate owner at the time hired Birch to paint it. It conveys the prosperity of a young country confidently taming the natural landscape.


I chose this piece of artwork because it caught my attention and it reminds me of a fairy tale house and scenery. It relates to my theme because it is a beautiful portrait of the land we live on.