Description

September by P. Buckley Moss

Content & Subject

September by P. Buckley Moss is a signed and numbered limited edition lithograph that captures the innocence of childhood, the spirit of learning, and the pride of American tradition. Belonging to the Moss Fall Collection, American Flag Collection, School Collection, and Two Boys Two Girls Collection, this artwork is rich in symbolism and storytelling.

The composition centers on a bright red one-room schoolhouse, an enduring icon of rural America. In the foreground, four Amish children—two boys and two girls—hold hands as they play in a circle, their simple clothing reflecting tradition and community. Behind them, the American flag waves proudly, uniting themes of education, heritage, and national identity. Bare trees and a soft autumn-to-winter sky provide a seasonal backdrop, situating the scene in September—a time of both new beginnings and quiet transitions.

Style & Technique

Moss’s distinctive folk-art style shines in September, balancing simplicity with expressive detail. The circular vignette creates a sense of intimacy, as though the viewer is glimpsing a cherished memory. The vivid red of the schoolhouse contrasts beautifully with the cool blues and soft grays of the background, emphasizing both structure and season.

The lithograph medium preserves Moss’s textured brushstrokes and delicate color layering, giving life to the figures, the flag, and the schoolhouse. Her ability to distill complex themes—education, patriotism, tradition—into a single joyful image is evident throughout this work.

Mood & Inspiration

The mood of September is joyful, nostalgic, and reverent. Moss captures the playful spirit of childhood while honoring the values of learning, community, and national pride. The American flag underscores a sense of unity, while the Amish children represent simplicity and timelessness.

Moss often drew inspiration from the Shenandoah Valley’s schools, farmlands, and traditions, celebrating the ways communities come together to teach, nurture, and grow. This piece reflects her admiration for the resilience of rural schools and the values they instill.

Placement & Gift Ideas

This artwork is perfect for settings that value education, tradition, and family. It would look beautiful in a classroom, study, or library, where its themes of learning and play inspire daily reflection. It also makes a charming addition to a family room, nursery, or hallway, where it can spark memories of childhood and heritage.

As a gift, September is ideal for teachers, parents, and Moss collectors, as well as for back-to-school occasions, graduations, retirements, and patriotic holidays. Its joyful spirit and layered symbolism make it a piece that resonates across generations.

Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. (see FAQs)

This print is available as a single print purchase or as part of the Twelve Months of the Year Set.

2002

Image Size: 4-3/8 x 4-3/8 inches. Paper Size: 5-5/8 x 5-5/8 inches.