The Course of Empire: The Savage State by Thomas Cole. A dramatic wilderness landscape under a stormy sky, featuring a prominent craggy mountain and small figures of hunters in the foreground.

The Course of Empire: The Savage State

Thomas Cole

1836 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A masterpiece of dramatic landscape painting depicting the wild, untamed beginnings of civilization.

$129

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6 frame sizes

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Where it works

A weightier piece with lively force with warm, lived-in color — holds a formal wall with confidence.

Often works in
Library · Living Room · Study
Placement
Works well when the wall can carry a broader statement
Walls
Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
Color notes
Charcoal black, Deep burgundy, Olive green

About the piece

Part of Thomas Cole's seminal series, 'The Savage State' captures the raw, majestic energy of nature. Painted in 1836, this Hudson River School work features a prominent rocky peak emerging through swirling storm clouds and golden light, symbolizing the primordial dawn of human society.

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