Pa. German Fractur Designs

c. 1937

Page Coffman

Associated Names
Page Coffman

Artist, American, 1903 - 1990

This is a drawing of calligraphic and decorative elements from illuminated manuscripts. The image presents a collection of ornate capital letters and decorative motifs. The drawing includes colorful flourishes, birds, botanical designs, and intricate details on the letters with striped and floral patterns. Text in German and English describes the elements and their use in manuscripts dated 1796, 1800, and 1804. The plant motifs feature vibrant reds, blues, and greens with curling leaves and vivid flowers. Birds with colorful plumage are incorporated into the scene. The arrangement suggests an appreciation for detail and a celebratory depiction of historical script and illumination techniques.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor, pen and ink, and graphite on paperboard

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 51.1 x 38.5 cm (20 1/8 x 15 3/16 in.)
    Original IAD Object: W. OM 34; H OM 209

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.3365

More About this Artwork

This painting depicts an angel in flight, facing the left and playing a trumpet. The angel's wings are spread out behind them, and their feet are extended out horizontally to the right. A small rod or post extends downward from the torso of the angel. The angel is entirely painted in shades of yellow, reddish-brown, and gray, reminiscent of weathered metal with patches of rust. Small rivets are visible at joints and edges of the angel, which appears to be comprised of small panels. The background of the painting is plain beige paper.

Article:  Seven Highlights from the Index of American Design

Peer into the American past with a collection of Great Depression–era watercolors.


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1970

  • Hornung, Clarence P., Treasury of American Design, New York: 1970, p. 720, no. 2622 and no. 2628.

Inscriptions

center left in watercolor: CAPITAL AND DECORATION / 1804; CENTER IN WATERCOLOR: ILLUMINATED DECORATION ON MANUSCRIPT - 1796; center right in watercolor: CAPITAL AND DECORATION / 1800

Wikidata ID

Q64618777

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