Can you tell me about this?
Thomas Cole, a great painter of the Hudson River School, is depicting a popular tourist destination in the Catskill Mountains called Catskill Mountain House. Cole is well known for using Romantic motifs in his landscapes, such as the dying gnarled tree in the foreground and the beautiful light streaming through the clouds. He infuses the view with emotion and a sense of a higher power.
The Catskill Mountain House opened in 1824 and had remarkable views of the Hudson River Valley. Cole also includes the nearby lakes and trails that were added attractions at this location.
Is the book he's carrying a journal? Documenting his journey perhaps?
It's most likely a sketchbook. We think the figure may be a self-portrait of the artist, or represent the idea of artists visiting this picturesque site in general!
Oh cool!