William Keith (California/Scotland, 1838-1911) oil on canvas Northern California landscape painting with cows gathered around a small pond in a loosely painted, atmospheric setting. A home stands on the hillside at left and sunlight emanates from behind tall trees to illuminate the sky and clouds and reflect off of the water below. Signed "W. Keith," lower left. Housed in a molded giltwood frame. Sight: 15 3/4 in. W x 23 1/2 in. W. Frame: 23 1/2 in. H x 31 3/4 in. W. Biographical Note: “William Keith was the giant of California landscape painters during the late nineteenth century, attaining national recognition at a time when few West Coast artists were widely known…Keith developed an intimate knowledge of the Sierras through visits he made with his close friend, the naturalist John Muir…Keith’s art falls into two distinct phases. From 1865 to 1882 he depicted California scenery in realistic, panoramic views. After 1882 most of his paintings were less grandiose and more in the Barbizon tradition-intimate and softly shadowed glades that convey a poetic mood rather than being described in detail.” (Source: LA County Museum of Art)

Canvas has been lined. With minor craquelure primarily to landscape, outside of sky. Frame with abrasions and losses, largest to upper left corner, 1 in x 1 in, plus gilt loss and fine, stable cracking.