autumn colour (rock and maple) 1916 James Edward Hervey Macdonald

The canvas presents a landscape dominated by geological formations and autumnal foliage. A substantial rock face occupies much of the compositions middle ground, its surface rendered with thick, impasto brushstrokes in shades of green, grey, and ochre. These tones suggest both the solidity of stone and the play of light across its uneven texture. The artist has not striven for photographic realism; instead, a heightened sense of color and form prevails.
A vibrant maple tree, ablaze with yellow leaves, emerges from the rock face, acting as a focal point. Its presence introduces a dynamic element to the scene, contrasting with the perceived permanence of the stone. Other trees, partially obscured by the central formation, are suggested through blocks of red and orange, reinforcing the autumnal theme.
Below the rocks, a body of water stretches across the lower portion of the painting. The surface is not depicted as calm or still; rather, it appears agitated, with horizontal brushstrokes in deep reds and browns creating a sense of movement and reflection. This reflective quality blurs the distinction between earth and sky, further intensifying the overall visual impact.
The background consists of a distant hillside, rendered in muted greens and blues, which provides depth to the scene. The horizon line is relatively low, emphasizing the foreground elements and contributing to a feeling of enclosure.
Subtly, theres an impression of isolation conveyed by the composition. The landscape feels remote and untouched, suggesting a reverence for nature’s power and beauty. The intense color palette, while celebratory of autumn, also hints at a melancholy associated with the seasons decline. The artist seems to be exploring not just the visual appearance of the scene but also its emotional resonance – a contemplation on transience and the enduring presence of the natural world.