Desolation | Thomas Cole | 1836 Frame Options:White Frame belongs to the artist's Symbolist

belongs to the artist's Symbolist and Expressionist period

Martin's dramatic use of light and shadow

and etiquette in the imperial court

indicating the widespread reach of deception

Her eyes avoid direct contact with the viewer

Desolation | Thomas Cole | 1836 Frame Options:White Frame belongs to the artist's SymbolistAbout the artwork: Thomas Cole's "The Course of Empire" is a five part series of paintings created between 1833 and 1836, depicting the rise and fall of an imaginary empire. The series traces the cyclical nature of civilization, beginning with "The Savage State," where nature is untamed and humanity is in its infancy. This is followed by "The Arcadian or Pastoral State," illustrating the harmony between humans and nature, and then "The Consummation of