Study for a Border Design

Charles Sprague Pearce, 1890/1897

The image contains a design comprised of a curved rectangle decorated with geometric shapes resembling a zigzag pattern. The central straight line runs vertically through the design. Overlapping layers of geometric forms mimic the structure of a fern or a feather. A repetitive pattern of elongated ovals on either side of the central line creates a motif similar to leaves or scales. The design blends abstract and organic elements, set against a background of light blue shading contrasting with the earthy tones of the central design.
Artist
Charles Sprague Pearce
Date
1890/1897
Type
Drawing
Medium
gold paint, pen and black ink, and watercolor on tan wove paper
Dimensions
sheet (irregular): 35.3 × 12.7 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

The image contains a design comprised of a curved rectangle decorated with geometric shapes resembling a zigzag pattern. The central straight line runs vertically through the design. Overlapping layers of geometric forms mimic the structure of a fern or a feather. A repetitive pattern of elongated ovals on either side of the central line creates a motif similar to leaves or scales. The design blends abstract and organic elements, set against a background of light blue shading contrasting with the earthy tones of the central design.

Charles Sprague Pearce