In 1887, during the Minneapolis State Fair, the renowned trompe l'oeil painting The Old Violin by William Michael Harnett was on display, captivating audiences with its lifelike depiction of a violin hanging on a pair of wooden shutters. So convincing was the artwork that it prompted debates among viewers about whether it was a painting or a real object, and in some cities, a guard was employed to prevent people from touching the artwork to settle the matter. However, not everyone was enamored with Harnett's style. Reverend Doctor F. T. Gates, in a sermon following the fair, criticized The Old Violin, calling it "a mere piece of legerdemain" with no higher artistic purpose beyond deceiving the viewer’s eye. This reaction reflects a broader cultural divide of the time, where Harnett’s meticulous realism was admired by some but dismissed by others for lacking moral or spiritual depth.

Despite these criticisms, Harnett's reputation has only grown, cemented further by art historians and collectors who have sought out his works over the years. His ability to create lifelike illusions of everyday objects resonated with audiences, and his systematic approach to composition can now be studied through the growing catalog of his works. Since the first publication of this book in 1953, over forty additional paintings, as well as several forgeries, have come to light, underscoring the lasting impact of Harnett’s art. His legacy, along with the recognition of fellow artists John Frederick Peto and John Haberle, has led to their inclusion in prestigious American museums, highlighting their contributions to the rich tradition of still life painting in the United States.

This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press's mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1953.

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