Wednesday 25 August 2010

Pale Moon


















4" x 6" oil sketch on paper
double mounted (matted) ivory 8" x 10"
sold

The full moon was just rising as I was out walking late yesterday evening, so it seemed only fitting to paint a moonlight. Even more fitting since I live in the town of Tralee. The Rose of Tralee festival Rose selection also took place last night.



The pale moon was rising above yon green mountain
The sun was declining beneath the blue sea
When I strayed with my love to the pure crystal fountain
That stands in the beautiful vale of Tralee

She was lovely and fair, as the rose of the summer,
Yet t'was not her beauty alone that won me.
Oh no, t'was the truth in her eye ever dawning,
That made me love Mary, the Rose of Tralee

The cool shades of evening their mantle were spreading
And Mary, all smiling, stood list'ning to me
The moon through the valley her pale rays was shedding
When I won the heart of the Rose of Tralee

William Pembroke Mulchinock



Most of these sketches are studies for larger paintings which will form part of a solo exhibition.