Sheep and Goat

Born in Bolton, Lancashire, England, Peter Moran immigrated to America with his family in 1844 and settled in Maryland. He trained with his older brothers, Edward and Thomas, who also became artists. In 1863 he studied in London for one year, and on his return settled in Philadelphia, where he spent the remainder of his life.

Known as a painter and engraver, Moran specialized in landscapes and scenes of animals, such as this charming painting with sheep, goats and ducks. In 1877 his prints were among the very first purchased for reproduction by an American commercial publisher. Moran traveled extensively, visiting New Mexico in 1864, the Rocky Mountains in 1879, and Arizona and New Mexico in the 1880s. He exhibited his works widely in the mid-Atlantic region, winning medals at shows in 1876 and 1902.