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William Michael Harnett
19th Century
19th Century

William Michael Harnett

Born 1848 Died 1892 Works span 1873–1892

William Michael Harnett: The Illusionist of Everyday Life William Michael Harnett (1848 – 1892) stands as a singular figure in American art history, celebrated for his masterful trompe-l'œil paintings that elevate the mundane into breathtaking illusions. Born in Clonakilty, County Cork, Ireland, Harnett’s early life was marked by emigration to Philadelphia shortly after his birth, shaping him into an artist deeply rooted in both Europ…

86
dated works
13
chapters
1873
first work
1892
last work
Chronological Journey

The Lifeline

Scroll through William Michael Harnett's working life — artwork by artwork, chapter by chapter — from the earliest dated work to the last. Each thumbnail is pinned at its exact year on the gold axis.

Drag or scroll to travel through time

Chapters — Career Periods

The ribbon is divided into shaded bands, one per career chapter. Each chapter groups William Michael Harnett's works by their historical period — early training, mature practice, final years.

Thumbnails — Dated Works

Every thumbnail is pinned at its precise creation year. A thin gold thread drops from the image to its exact point on the axis. Larger frames mark the artist's masterpieces by rank.

Colour Band — Movement Drift

The gradient bar beneath the axis shifts colour as the dominant art movement changes over time — from the warm golds of the early period through the deeper tones of maturity. It fills progressively as you scroll.