Young Shepherd in Repose (Portrait of Alexander Thurneyssen)

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: nn Before you stands "Young Shepherd in Repose (Portrait of Alexander Thurneyssen)," a captivating work painted in 1911. This piece, housed right here in the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, introduces us to Alexander Thurneyssen, a young man depicted in the attire and peaceful posture of a shepherd. The artist's choice to portray him in this way hints at themes of serenity and a connection to nature, popular in art during this period. nn Notice the artist's careful attention to detail in rendering the textures of the shepherd's clothing and the surrounding landscape. The soft, earthy tones of the color palette further enhance the sense of tranquility and harmony. The composition, with the figure positioned slightly off-center, draws our eye across the canvas, inviting us to linger on the details and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. nn While the artist remains unknown, "Young Shepherd in Repose" offers us a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the early 20th century. It reminds us of the enduring power of portraiture to capture not only likeness but also a sense of the subject's inner world.