Artwork
Tiger
Tiger is a watercolor work on paper by the Art Nouveau artist Elsie Marian Henderson. It dates from 1928 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Elsie Marian Henderson's 'Tiger' is a watercolour painting featuring a crouched tiger, characterized by expressive, loose brushwork and a predominantly dark colour palette with textured, patchy fur rendering.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a tiger poised in a coiled stance, conveys potent energy. The partially hidden eyes and lowered posture may suggest a state of restrained power or imminent action, inviting interpretation of the animal's intent.
Technique & Style
Henderson employed quick, rough strokes in dark browns and blacks, with lighter patches for texture, allowing the paper to show through for a sketchy, unfinished appearance. The confident, loose lines prioritize capturing the tiger's muscular form.
History & Provenance
Signed by the artist, the work's specific creation date and ownership history are not detailed here. For more on Henderson's oeuvre, the Victoria and Albert Museum is noted as a relevant resource.
Artist & collection
Artist
Elsie Marian Henderson painted bold, stylized animals in watercolor, mostly between the 1920s and ’30s.
