Rehs Galleries Presents the New Online Catalogue Raisonné for Daniel Ridgway Knight
Rehs Galleries, a respected name in the art world, has recently introduced a groundbreaking digital initiative: the
Daniel Ridgway Knight Online Catalogue Raisonné. This comprehensive online platform, accessible at
www.ridgwayknight.org, is dedicated to chronicling the life and extensive works of the celebrated American artist from the 19th century, Daniel Ridgway Knight.
The Vision Behind the Project
Leading this academic endeavor is Howard L. Rehs, an established art historian and the owner of Rehs Galleries. With a degree in art history obtained from New York University in 1981, Rehs has devoted much of his career to studying the British Victorian art market and has a profound appreciation for French academic artists. His meticulous efforts have earned him a reputation as a knowledgeable dealer in the art community.
Dr. Janet Whitmore, a prominent art historian and adjunct professor at Ohio University, is collaborating closely with Rehs on this catalogue. As they prepare to share their findings, it's worth noting that this marks their second project together, following the successful publication of the catalogue raisonné for French painter Julien Dupré.
Roots of the Initiative
The inception of this catalogue can be traced back to 1991 when Howard Rehs was engrossed in researching Julien Dupré for his previous catalogue. During this time, he stumbled upon a wealth of information regarding Daniel Ridgway Knight. His discoveries sparked an enduring interest that has culminated in the launch of the online catalogue over three decades later.
Daniel Ridgway Knight (1839–1924) was an influential American expatriate painter well-known for his enchanting portrayals of pastoral life in France. His artistic journey began at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, followed by further studies in Paris under renowned painter Charles Gleyre. Knight's unique style, characterized by luminous scenes depicting peasant women in the idyllic French countryside, garnered widespread recognition. His talent was evident in his exhibitions at the Paris Salon, where he received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Legion of Honor.
A Lasting Legacy
Today, Knight’s artwork can be found in numerous esteemed museums across the United States. Collections showcasing his genius include institutions such as the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the Brooklyn Museum, the High Museum of Art, and many others. Through this catalogue, the aim is to create a singular reference point for scholars, collectors, and the general public alike, documenting Knight’s diverse body of work.
The Digital Approach
Unlike traditional printed catalogues that often become obsolete, the
Daniel Ridgway Knight Online Catalogue Raisonné offers a dynamic solution. This platform is designed for continuous updates, ensuring that it evolves alongside new discoveries and research in the realm of Knight's art. “This online format allows for ongoing research and the incorporation of newly discovered works,” Rehs commented, encouraging art collectors and institutions worldwide to share their findings.
Together with Dr. Whitmore, Rehs is reaching out to art collectors who own Daniel Ridgway Knight paintings. They welcome owners to submit images and provenance details via the dedicated authentication page, contributing to this comprehensive catalogue.
An Invitation to Explore
The newly launched online catalogue offers open access to a wealth of resources, including research materials, images, provenance records, and in-depth expert analysis. This initiative not only honors Knight’s contributions to the art world but also invites collaboration from art enthusiasts and scholars around the globe.
For further details on the project, please visit
Rehs Galleries or contact them directly.
As the art community continues to uncover new narratives and perspectives, the
Daniel Ridgway Knight Online Catalogue Raisonné emerges as a pivotal resource, ensuring that Knight's legacy endures for generations to come.