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Festus Yayple and his Oxen

1946
(American, 1891–1948)
America, 20th century
oil on canvas
Framed: 76.2 x 105.4 x 6.4 cm (30 x 41 1/2 x 2 1/2 in.); Unframed: 61.6 x 91.4 cm (24 1/4 x 36 in.)
Hinman B. Hurlbut Collection 1949.1775
Location: not on view
This artwork is known to be under copyright.

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Did You Know?

The museum purchased this painting directly from Ault's widow just eight months after the artist died.

Description

Cleveland-born George Ault spent his final years in rural Woodstock, New York, where he befriended local laborers such as ox-trader Festus Yayple. As typical of the artist’s work, this canvas infuses an aura of loneliness and beauty into the everyday world. The austere calm of the painting's composition contrasts with Ault's personal life. During this time he lived in poverty, with failing eyesight, alcoholism, and ill health.
Festus Yayple and his Oxen

Festus Yayple and his Oxen

1946

George Ault

(American, 1891–1948)
America, 20th century

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