Figurehead

c. 1937

Elizabeth Moutal

Associated Names
Elizabeth Moutal

Artist, American, 1909 - 2000

The sculpture in the image is a figurehead resembling a woman with a crown on her head, an upturned face, neat hair, and an elaborate dress. The dress has shades of teal, green, gold, and beige with intricate trimmings. The wooden figure is attached to the prow of a ship, painted with vibrant colors and ornate details including green and gold trim. The sculpture stands on a decorative swirl of green and blue elements, enhancing its maritime connection.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor and graphite on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 47.5 x 35.3 cm (18 11/16 x 13 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.17988

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: 6.

Wikidata ID

Q64558838

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