Mision Santa Clara

1935/1942

James Jones

Associated Names
James Jones

Artist, American, active 1932 - 1942

This is a drawing of the facade of a mission-style building. The drawing depicts the frontal view of a mission with distinct architectural details typical of Spanish missions, such as niches, urns, and arched doorways. The structure is symmetrical, with its main entrance featuring a pair of columns flanking the doorway, an arched entry, and a triangular gable adorned with decorative sculptural elements. Above the entrance, there is a circular window framed by an ornate motif. Below the illustration, a banner reads "1777 Mission Santa Clara." The drawing is rendered in a precise, monochromatic style, suggesting careful attention to geometric and architectural accuracy.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    lithograph on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 31.2 x 24.9 cm (12 5/16 x 9 13/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.2303

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

Inscriptions

lower center in plate: 1777 / Mission Santa Clara

Markings

BS: WPA ART PROJECT

Wikidata ID

Q64580433

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