Figurehead: "Janus"

Art Historical Context

Behold the striking *Figurehead: "Jan"*, a vivid watercolor and graphite rendering by Ingrid Selmer-Larsen created around 1938. This artwork captures the majestic carved prow ornament from an American ship, embodying the mythical Roman god Janus with his dual faces gazing forward and backward—symbol transitions, beginnings, and the passage of time. At48.8 x 36.1 cm, the piece showcases intricate details of wood grain, expressive features, and nautical weathering, inviting viewers to ponder the seafaring spirit of early America. As part of the *Index of American Design*, a groundbreaking Works...