Study for "Greek Girls Bathing"

c. 1872

Elihu Vedder

Associated Names
Elihu Vedder

Artist, American, 1836 - 1923

The image showcases abstract shapes outlining two figures standing back-to-back, both draped in flowing garments. The lines convey fabric movement like waves, captured mid-swish. The figures have smooth oval-shaped heads without facial features, enhancing the abstract quality. One figure's arm is outstretched at the elbow, resembling a gesture or holding pose, while the other figure's arm is raised over the head, evoking a sun-shielding gesture. The composition suggests elements of ancient sculptures or classical statues, depicting a timeless dance between figures in motion.

Media Options

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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

the artist, Rome, Italy; Anita Herriman Vedder (daughter of the artist), Rome, Italy, 1923; American Academy of Arts and Letters, New York, 1954; Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 1955; acquired 2015 by the National Gallery of Art

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1978

  • Perceptions and Evocations: The Art of Elihu Vedder, National Collection of Fine Arts, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC; Brooklyn Museum, New York, 1978-1979

Bibliography

1983

  • Simmons, Linda Crocker and with the assistance of Adrianne J. Humphrey, et al. American Drawings, Watercolors, Pastels, and Collages in the Collection of the Corcoran Gallery of Art. Washington, DC: Corcoran Gallery of Art, 1983: p. 78, no. 489.

Wikidata ID

Q64558478

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