photo #7915892

Maxfield Parrish (1870–1966) Moonlight Night Winter, 1942, oil on board, 20 x 15.75, Private Collection... The hallmark of the work of the American illustrator and painter Maxfield Parrish is the brilliance of his colours. That along with enchanting figures set in pastoral landscapes make up the signature style of this twentieth century artist, and help explain just why he is one of the most beloved American artists in history.During the Golden Age of Illustration, Maxfield Parrish's beautiful settings and charming figures enchanted the American public. His work includes immense murals in office buildings and hotels, magazine covers, and advertisements as well as his book illustrations.Everyone recognizes the magical world woven by Parrish, usually with the color lapiz lazuli in its purest form. His signature use of this colour was so powerful that a certain cobalt blue became known as Parrish Blue. One of Parrish's latest works, Moonlight Night Winter, is so precisely drawn and crafted that there is something almost preternaturally still about the scene as a whole. Showing the artist's gift for glowing blues, the painting is also a step away from the strong storytelling that earlier works present.