The artwork, titled “A Social History of the State of Missouri (detail),” was created by the artist Thomas Hart Benton in 1936. It is part of the art movement known as Regionalism and falls within the genre of genre painting. This piece belongs to the series “A Social History of the State of Missouri.”
The artwork vividly illustrates various aspects of rural and social life in Missouri. It depicts individuals engaged in everyday activities such as farming, illustrating the robust physical labor and community interactions characteristic of the time. The dynamic composition and vibrant palette exemplify Benton’s style, with a prominent focus on the human figure and the rustic landscape. The scene showcases a farmer operating a plow pulled by a mule, surrounded by other figures tending to their tasks, including gathering crops and managing livestock. The meticulous detailing in the depiction of the clothing, tools, and farm animals alongside the engaging narrative highlights Benton’s commitment to capturing the essence of Missouri’s social history.
