Stern Carving: Spread Eagle
1935/1942
Medium
watercolor and graphite on paperboard
Dimensions
overall: 30.4 x 53.3 cm (11 15/16 x 21 in.)
Classification
Index of American Design
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Index of American Design
Accession Number
1943.8.16367
Art Historical Context
**Stern Carving: Eagle** *Flora Merchant, 1935/1942* Watercolor and graphite on paperboard, 30.4 × 53.3 cm (11 15/16 × 21 in.) *Index of American Design, National Gallery of Art* the majestic **Stern Carving Spread Eagle**, a vivid watercolor and graphite rendering by artist Flora Merchant. This detailed depiction captures the iconic spread eagle motif adorning a ship's stern—a bold symbol of American patriotism and maritime prowess. Crafted on paperboard, the medium allows for Merchant's precise graphite outlines paired with luminous watercolors, bringing the carved wooden eagle to li...