Eagle

Art Historical Context

Behold the majestic *Eagle*, a meticulous graphite drawing on paperboard by Bernard Westott, created between 1935 and 1942. Measuring 29.3 x 23.2 cm, this work is a gem from the Index of American Design, a groundbreaking Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA During the Great Depression, like Westmacott were commissioned to document America's rich folk art and decorative traditions through precise, watercolor-tinted renderings—though this piece shines in its detailed graphite lines, capturing the eagle's form with scientific accuracy and artistic grace. The eagle, a enduring symbol of American strength and freedom, likely depicts a carved wooden ornament or craft object from the nation's material culture, preserving motifs popular in 18th- and 19th-century homes, ships, and public spaces. Westmacott's technique—fine graphite strokes on sturdy paperboard—highlights the Index's goal: to celebrate everyday artistry amid economic hardship, creating an invaluable visual archive now housed in the National Gallery of Art. This drawing not only showcases technical virtuosity but also invites us to reflect on America's creative spirit, bridging past craftsmanship with modern appreciation. A testament to cultural heritage, it reminds visitors of the eagle's timeless soar across our history.