Artwork

Flowers in a Pitcher

Flowers in a Pitcher, by Fidelia Bridges, watercolor, 1874
Flowers in a Pitcher, by Fidelia Bridges, watercolor, 1874

Flowers in a Pitcher is a watercolor drawing by the Impressionist artist Fidelia Bridges. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Flowers in a Pitcher is a watercolor drawing on brown wove paper, created by American artist Fidelia Bridges around 1874. Characterized by its delicate botanical depiction, the work showcases Bridges' mastery of watercolor, a medium she excelled in after initially training in oil painting.

Subject & Meaning

The piece features a simple, yet precisely rendered, still life of a clay pitcher filled with green leaves and delicate pink and white flowers, spilling over its edges. The subject reflects Bridges' signature focus on natural, botanical themes.

Technique & Style

Bridges employed loose brushstrokes to capture light and texture, prioritizing the overall appearance over minute details. The use of brown paper as the background, unusual for watercolors of the time, adds a warm, earthy tone, enhancing the floral colors' visibility.

History & Provenance

As one of the early members of the American Watercolor Society and its sole female founding member, Bridges' work, including *Flowers in a Pitcher*, contributed to her prominence. Her pieces were widely disseminated through reproductions in various publications and greeting cards.

Context

Created in the late 19th century, *Flowers in a Pitcher* sits within the broader context of American watercolor development, where Bridges played a pivotal role in popularizing the medium through her detailed, naturalistic depictions.

Legacy

Through her watercolors, including *Flowers in a Pitcher*, Bridges left a legacy as a pioneering female artist in a predominantly male-dominated field, known for bringing botanical subjects to life with refined technique and precision.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Fidelia Bridges

Artist

Fidelia Bridges

Fidelia Bridges (May 19, 1834 – May 14, 1923) was an American artist of the late 19th century.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.