Carousel Reindeer

Art Historical Context

**Carousel Reindeer** by Michael Riccitelli, around 1939, is a vibrant mixed-media rendering that captures the whimsical charm of a classic American carousel figure. Using watercolor, graphite, and colored pencil on paper (36.2 x 49 cm), Riccitelli meticulously depicts the reindeer's ornate saddle, flowing mane, and playful expression, bringing to life the hand-carved artistry of early 20th-century amusement. This artwork is part of the *Index of American Design*, a groundbreaking Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) from 1935 to 1942. During the Great Depression, artists like Riccitelli were commissioned to document everyday objects of American folk art and craftsmanship through precise, colorful illustrations. The Index preserved over 15,000 cultural artifacts—from quilts to tools—celebrating the nation's creative heritage at a time of economic hardship. Riccitelli's technique blends the fluidity of watercolor for rich hues with graphite's fine lines and colored pencil's subtle shading, creating a lifelike study that highlights the sculptural prowess of carousel carvers. Housed in the National Gallery of Art, this piece invites visitors to appreciate how everyday joys like carousels embodied American ingenuity and joy.

About the Artist

Michael Riccitelli · 1855–present

**Michael Riccitelli** (American, active c. 1935) was a skilled draftsman whose precise watercolor renderings captured the essence of American folk art during the Great Depression era. Little is known about his early life or formal training, as biographical details remain scarce. He gained prominence through his contributions to the Index of American Design (IAD), a Works Progress Administration (...