Inness probably made this luminous image of a moonrise over a grove of trees near Tarpon Springs during one of his stays there. Much of Inness’s popularity is owed to his ability to create such peaceful views of the unspoiled countryside. His paintings were a contrast to the actual American landscape which was rapidly changing due to farming, industry, and urbanization. Inness’s works also reflect his belief that the beauty of the natural world was a manifestation of God’s divine presence and power.