Artwork

Woman at the Water

Woman at the Water, by Maria Uhden, ink, 1918
Woman at the Water, by Maria Uhden, ink, 1918

Woman at the Water is an ink print by Maria Uhden. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Maria Uhden’s 1918 woodcut, titled Woman at the Water, presents a solitary female figure seated in shallow water amid dense vegetation. Rendered in black ink on laid buff paper, the print balances the central figure with surrounding foliage, creating a composed, tranquil scene.

Subject & Meaning

The woman, positioned centrally, faces left with bent legs and hands resting on her knees, her expression calm and her hair cut straight. The surrounding grasses and leaves frame her, suggesting a quiet communion with nature and an atmosphere of repose.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the work relies on carved wood blocks to produce bold, linear marks and a distinctive surface texture. The monochrome palette and softened contours emphasize the serene mood while highlighting the tactile qualities inherent in the medium.

History & Provenance

Created in the final year of World War I, the print reflects Uhden’s engagement with German Expressionist printmaking. It entered public collections through early 20th‑century acquisitions, though specific ownership details remain limited.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Maria Uhden

Artist

Maria Uhden

Maria Uhden (1892–1918) was a German artist, born in Coburg.

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