Wooden Figure
1935/1942
Medium
graphite on paperboard
Dimensions
overall: 29 x 22.8 cm (11 7/16 x 9 in.)
Classification
Index of American Design
Department
CG-W
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Index of American Design
Accession Number
1943.8.10171
Art Historical Context
Welcome to the National Gallery of Art showcase of American design heritage! "Wooden Figure," a meticulous graphite drawing on paperboard by Bernard Westott, dates from the pivotal years of 1935–1942. Created as part of the Index of American Design—a groundbreaking WPA Federal Art Project initiative during the Great Depression—this 29 x 22.8 cm work exemplifies the era's effort to document and celebrate everyday American folk art and craftsmanship. Westmacott's rendering captures the essence of a wooden figure with precise graphite lines and subtle shading, highlighting the object's tactile q...