John Haberle: Master of American Illusion

John Haberle’s artistic legacy has few peers. In fact, with William Harnet and John F. Peto, Haberle stands as one of the three great American tromp l’oeil painters of 19th-century. He’s also the least well known.

The New Britain Art Museum currently has on display John Haberle: Master of American Illusion, a retrospective highlighting the artists brief career. His work shows flashes of humor and an ability to invoke various complex aspects of society. The exhibition is curated by Gertrude Grace Sill, who has also prepared a comprehensive catalog of Haberle’s painting.

On view through March 11, 2010. For a full review head to Antiques & the Arts.

For a selection of Haberle’s painting read on.