Piece of Shag
c. 1936
Medium
watercolor and graphite on paper
Dimensions
overall: 23.2 x 23.3 cm (9 1/8 x 9 3/16 in.)
Classification
Index of American Design
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Index of American Design
Accession Number
1943.8.16793
Art Historical Context
"Piece of Shag" a delicate watercolor and graphite rendering by Frances Cohen, created around 1936. This intimate study, measuring just over 9 inches square, captures the textured allure of a shag fabric sample—likely a plush pile textile emblematic of American home furnishings. Cohen's precise depiction highlights the material's fluffy depth and subtle color variations, inviting viewers to appreciate the tactile qualities of everyday design. As part of the Index of American Design, a WPA Federal Art Project from the 1930s, this work exemplifies a national effort to document and celebrate Ame...