The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere (painting) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Artist | Grant Wood |
| Year | 1931 |
| Medium | Oil on masonite |
| Dimensions | 76 cm × 100 cm (30 in × 40 in) |
| Location | Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City |
The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere is a famous painting from 1931. It was created by an American artist named Grant Wood. This artwork shows a very important moment in American history. It features Paul Revere, an American patriot, during his famous midnight ride. This ride happened on April 18, 1775.
The painting shows Revere riding through Lexington, Massachusetts. The town is brightly lit, and the scene is viewed from high above. Grant Wood was inspired by a poem called "Paul Revere's Ride". This poem was written in 1860 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. For the horse in the painting, Wood actually used a child's toy hobby horse as his model!
This painting is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
Contents
The Story Behind the Painting
Grant Wood's painting tells a story from the American Revolution. Paul Revere was a silversmith and a patriot. He rode through the night to warn American colonists. He told them that British soldiers were coming. This warning helped the colonists prepare for battle. It was a very brave and important act.
Who Was Paul Revere?
Paul Revere was a key figure in the American Revolution. He was a messenger for the Sons of Liberty. This group worked for American independence. His ride helped start the first battles of the war. These battles were fought at Lexington and Concord.
The Poem's Influence
The poem "Paul Revere's Ride" made Revere's story very famous. It was written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The poem helped people remember Revere's courage. Grant Wood's painting brings this famous poem to life. It shows the dramatic moment of Revere's ride.
About the Artist, Grant Wood
Grant Wood was an American painter. He was known for his unique style. Many of his paintings show scenes from American life. He often painted landscapes and people from the Midwest. His works are famous for their clear details and strong shapes.
Wood's Artistic Style
Grant Wood used a style called Regionalism. This style focused on everyday life in rural America. His paintings often have a dreamlike quality. They show familiar scenes in a new and interesting way. The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere is a great example of his style.
Where to See the Painting
The painting is owned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This museum is located in New York City. It is one of the largest art museums in the world. While the painting is part of their collection, it might not always be on display. Museums sometimes rotate their artworks.
Images for kids
-
The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere by Grant Wood
