Thomas Moran

Moran wrote to his wife about travelling to the Grand Canyon of the Colorado at To-Ro-Weap: "On reaching the brink the whole gorge for miles lay beneath us and it was by far the most awfully grand and impressive scene that I have ever yet seen. . . . All above the canyon is variously colored sandstone mainly a light flesh or cream color and worn into very fine forms. I made an outline and did a little color work but had not time nor was it worth while to make a detailed study in color. We made several photos which will give me all the details I want if I conclude to paint the view." This large, detailed watercolor of the spectacular scene was painted after Moran returned to his studio.