An Apple for Traveller

This is Mort Künstler limited edition print - An Apple for Traveller. 

LIMITED EDITION PRINTS
Paper Prints
Reproduction technique: Fine offset lithography on neutral pH archival quality paper using the finest fade-resistant inks.
Each print is numbered and signed by the artist and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Image Size: 17” x 23” • Overall Size: 22” x 27”
Signed & Numbered • Edition Size: 350
Signed Artist’s Proof • Edition Size: 50

Giclée Canvas Prints
Reproduction technique: Giclées are printed with the finest archival pigmented inks on canvas.
Each print is numbered and signed by the artist and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Signature Edition 16” x 21”
Signed & Numbered • Edition Size: 50
Signed Artist’s Proof • Edition Size: 10

Classic Edition 21” x 28”
Signed & Numbered • Edition Size: 50
Signed Artist’s Proof • Edition Size: 10

Premier Edition 27” x 36”
Signed & Numbered • Edition Size: 15
Signed Artist’s Proof • Edition Size: 5

Collector’s Edition 36” x 48”
Signed & Numbered • Edition Size: 5
Signed Artist’s Proof • Edition Size: 2

Historical Information
There are few relationships more appreciated than that of a horse soldier and his mount. During the American Civil War, over a million horses perished in service to their respective causes. Few of them are remembered and revered today as much as Robert E. Lee’s horse, Traveller. Buried at Lee Chapel, at the same site as his commander, this dappled grey American Saddlebred was known for his speed, strength and courage in combat. Lee acquired him in 1862, and rode him throughout the war and beyond.

In a letter penned during the war, Lee described his horse to Mrs. Lee’s cousin, Markie Williams, who wished to paint a portrait of Traveller. He wrote:

“If I was an artist like you, I would draw a true picture of Traveller; representing his fine proportions, muscular figure, deep chest, short back, strong haunches, flat legs, small head, broad forehead, delicate ears, quick eye, small feet, and black mane and tail. Such a picture would inspire a poet, whose genius could then depict his worth, and describe his endurance of toil, hunger, thirst, heat and cold; and the dangers and suffering through which he has passed. He could dilate upon his sagacity and affection, and his invariable response to every wish of his rider. He might even imagine his thoughts through the long night-marches and days of the battle through which he has passed.”

Mort Künstler’s Comments
One of my favorite images to paint each year is my annual snow scene. Usually released around the holidays, this piece incorporates some of my favorite lighting and composition techniques. It is therefore no surprise that I have given an enormous amount of thought to what will probably be my last Civil War snow scene. I also took a slightly different angle. Instead of searching for a specific and significant sight as a backdrop for this number VII of VIII in the “Legends” series, I decided to paint a scene that could have taken place on any winter night during the war.

Robert E. Lee was known for his kindness to animals as well as people and his thoughtfulness was legendary. That accolade formed the inspiration for this painting which gave me the opportunity to capture the relationship between the general and his faithful horse Traveller. With this scene, I felt that I could depict his sincerity and capture a brief moment of serenity amidst the perils of war.

I emphasized Lee and Traveller by making them the primary center of interest by utilizing the lamplight of the tent and the light from the campfires. I used small amounts of warm color to contrast with the large areas of cool blues, to focus the viewer’s eyes on Lee and his fabled horse. I also used the breath of Traveller to lighten the area around the apple, and the red of the apple to further enhance the story. The first National flag is used as a color accent as well as identifying the scene as a Confederate camp. On numerous occasions during the Civil War, especially at night, riders rode with the enemy without knowing it.