Vegetable Seller

Maker G. C. (British)

ClassificationsDRAWINGS

Daten.d.

Mediumwatercolor over graphite pencil on wove paper

Dimensions11 1/2 × 9 in. (29.2 × 22.9 cm.) mat: 22 × 16 in. (55.9 × 40.6 cm.)

SignedSignature; with initials: G. C. See Comments

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Gilbert Davis Collection

Status

Not on view

Label TextThough signed with the initials “G. C.”, this watercolor remains unattributed. Its artist’s understanding of composition and the properties of the medium, however, is readily apparent. Short strokes of browns and blacks create the weave of the basket. An unfinished swathe of pigment, applied heavily and very wet, has been left to pool, creating the rough texture of the wall. The planes of the figure’s face emerge through highlights along his nose and brow, deepening into shadow along his cheek and jaw. The specificity of these features suggests that he is an individual, drawn from life, and his intense gaze and upright stance lend gravitas (2022).

Object number59.55.216

Terms