Wolf's Head
c. 1939
Medium
watercolor and graphite on paperboard
Dimensions
overall: 31.4 x 44.2 cm (12 3/8 x 17 3/8 in.) Original IAD Object: 8" high; 18 1/2" long
Classification
Index of American Design
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Index of American Design
Accession Number
1943.8.17093
Art Historical Context
**Wolf's Head**, a captivating watercolor and graphite rendering by artist Harry King, dates to around 1939 and measures 31.4 x 44.2 cm. This work faithfully captures a folk art object—a striking wolf's head originally 8 inches high and 18½ inches long—likely a carved wooden artifact evoking early American craftsmanship, such as a trade sign, nautical figurehead or decorative carving. King's meticulous technique blends the fluidity of watercolor for rich textures and tones with the precision of graphite for fine details, bringing the snarling visage to life on paperboard. Created as part of t...