Artwork
Panther and Young Lion Studies
Panther and Young Lion Studies is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Arthur Bowen Davies. It dates from 1895 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Panther and Young Lion Studies is a graphite drawing created by American artist Arthur B. Davies in 1895. Characterized by loose, quick lines, the sketch features two animal subjects: a panther and a young lion, with the latter annotated as '1 yr old'.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing focuses on the naturalistic depiction of two felines, a panther and a young lion, with the artist's labels providing specific identification and age for the lion. The subject matter suggests an exploration of animal forms and possibly the artist's observation skills.
Technique & Style
Executed in graphite, the drawing showcases a spontaneous and expressive technique, with scribble-like lines conveying a sense of immediacy. The loose rendering may reflect the artist's avant-garde inclinations, emphasizing capture of form over meticulous detail.
History & Provenance
Created in 1895, this work precedes Davies' peak influence in the early 20th century as a promoter of modern art in the United States. The drawing's condition, with worn paper and smudges, indicates handling and age.
Context
While stylistically distinct, the sketchy, expressive quality of Panther and Young Lion Studies might find parallels with the observational immediacy seen in Impressionist works, though Davies' broader oeuvre is more closely tied to the development of American modernism.
Legacy
As part of Davies' body of work, this drawing contributes to the understanding of his artistic development and his role in shaping the trajectory of modern art in America, though its individual impact within his corpus is not prominently highlighted in available information.
Artist & collection
Artist
Arthur Bowen Davies (September 26, 1862 – October 24, 1928) was an avant-garde American artist and influential advocate of modern art in the United States c. 1910–1928.
