Study for Proposed Portfolio "Decorated Chests of Rural Pennsylvania"

1941

American 20th Century

Associated Names
The image features a central panel with a rounded top and flat bottom, filled with abstract shapes and lines that create an intricate design. A pair of star shapes near the top are complemented by leafy blue vines winding their way through the composition, reminiscent of floral motifs with stylized bell-shaped white flowers and tulip-like yellow forms. At the heart of the design is an abstract green fan shape. Surrounding the central element are geometric green and blue lines that form an interweaving pattern. The combination of familiar shapes with an overall stylized and abstract approach creates a balanced and symmetrical arrangement.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    tempera on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 45.5 x 35.5 cm (17 15/16 x 14 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.18101


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1970

  • Hornung, Clarence P., Treasury of American Design, New York: 1970, p. 707, no. 2591.

Inscriptions

across top verso in black ink: The Decorated Chests of Rural Pennsylvania / Color Design #2, interpretation, for screen print / Design from Penna. fu-280, chest (dower), Index drawing ny Carl Strehlau / Prepared by Penna WPA Art Project 1941

Wikidata ID

Q64535576

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