Cat Head Gargoyle

John Davis

1932/1945

Cat Head Gargoyle by John Davis

Medium

watercolor and graphite on paperboard

Dimensions

overall: 22.2 x 30.2 cm (8 3/4 x 11 7/8 in.)

Classification

Index of American Design

Department

CG-W

Museum

National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.

Credit

Index of American Design

Accession Number

1943.8.8244

Art Historical Context

Behold the whimsical *Cat Head Gargoyle* John Davis, a captivating watercolor and graphite rendering on paperboard created between 1932 and 194. Measuring a modest 22.2 x 30.2 cm, this detailed study captures the fierce yet playful visage of a feline waterspout, likely drawn from American architectural ornamentation. Davis's precise lines in graphite, enhanced by vibrant watercolor washes, bring out the gargoyle's expressive eyes, textured fur, and snarling mouth, evoking sense of medieval mischief adapted to the New World. This artwork is a gem from the *Index of American Design*, a groundbr...

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