Trotter in Action

1935/1942

Henry Murphy

Associated Names
Henry Murphy

Artist, American, active c. 1935

This is a painting of a mechanical horse with a driver seated on a small chariot. The image features a wooden-like horse poised on one leg, with exposed gear-like structures and joints. The horse is connected to a chariot with red wheels, and a figure in a hat sits on it, seemingly controlling the arrangement. The painting emphasizes mechanical and artistic elements, with detailed rendering of joints, wheels, and functional components. The scene is depicted in a neutral color palette with earthy tones, showcasing the texture and material of the objects. The style resembles that of Leonardo da Vinci, known for his mechanical and anatomical drawings.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor, graphite, and pen and ink on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 32.6 x 41.6 cm (12 13/16 x 16 3/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.7801


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1970

  • Hornung, Clarence P., Treasury of American Design, New York: 1970, p. 631, no. 2292.

Wikidata ID

Q64573957

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