Figurehead "Martha"

c. 1938

Mary E. Humes

Associated Names
Mary E. Humes

Artist, American, 1911 - 2001

The sculpture depicts a female figure in a dynamic pose, with her right arm bent and hand placed near her chest while her left arm is at her side. She is dressed in a draped garment intricately carved to suggest flowing fabric, giving a sense of movement. The figure's hair is styled in an elaborate fashion, with tight curls framing her face. The sculpture is a mix of light and dark tones, appearing textured, and made from a material resembling aged ivory or bone, with visible grain and surface variations. Shown in a three-quarter view from head to waist, the sculpture is carved with attention to detail, providing a lifelike representation of the woman, defined by precise lines and contours.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor, graphite, and colored pencil on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 40.8 x 30.6 cm (16 1/16 x 12 1/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.9916


Artwork history & notes

Wikidata ID

Q64607873

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