Artwork
Single Hollyhocks
Single Hollyhocks is an ink print by the Impressionist artist James David Smillie. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left in plate: J.D. Smillie / July '89; lower right in graphite: James D. Smillie / Aug. '89-
About this work
Overview
Single Hollyhocks is a 1889 print by James David Smillie, executed in mezzotint with drypoint in black.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a cluster of hollyhock flowers in close-up, rendered in varying shades of black and white. The artist's focus on capturing light and texture on the flower petals suggests an exploration of their visual qualities.
Technique & Style
Smillie employed shading and chiaroscuro to create depth and dimensionality in the flowers, making them appear to project from the dark background. The use of mezzotint and drypoint allowed for rich tonal variations and detailed rendering of the petals.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
