Cat Head Gargoyle
1932/1945
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...