Brook Study at Warwick, New York
Artist
David Johnson
(American, 1827 - 1908)
Date1873
MediumOil on canvas, with an original 1870s-style frame
DimensionsFramed: 38 x 52 x 5in. (96.5 x 132.1cm)
Overall: 26 x 40in. (66 x 101.6cm)
Overall: 26 x 40in. (66 x 101.6cm)
ClassificationsPAINTINGS
Credit LineProctor Collection
Terms
Object numberPC. 62
Description On View
Not on viewCollections
CopyrightNo known copyright restrictions.
Label TextThe impressive frame on this painting was probably in place when Helen Elizabeth Munson Williams purchased Johnson's painting at the Utica Art Association's 1878 exhibition. The combination of decorative elements on the three principal moldings, featuring geometric and naturalistic patterns juxtaposed in novel combinations, is typical of the most sophisticated frames made in the 1870s. It's original, bright gold finish can be seen along the bottom edge where a label has been removed.
The outermost edge is decorated with an overlapping ("imbricated") leaf and berry motif. The middle cove features bellflowers and ivy leaves against a textured stipple ground. Two rows of beads border the inner cove, which is decorated with a spade-shaped anthemion pattern. This neoclassical motif was a popular design element in frames made during this decade. Owen Jones published an example of an anthemion in his influential book, Grammar of Ornament (1856). The small leaves and ribbons that cover the miter joints at the corners are typical of a well-made frame.
Paul D. Schweizer
August 2010
