Artwork
The Widow
The Widow is an ink print by William Strang. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Widow is a lithograph created by Scottish artist William Strang around 1900. Characterized by rough, smudged lines and dark tones, the print presents a somber, introspective portrayal of a solitary female figure in mourning.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of The Widow is a woman in mourning attire, depicted with eyes closed and hands clasped over her chest, accompanied by a locket or pendant. The image conveys themes of solitude, grief, and contemplation, consistent with Strang's exploration of solemn subjects in his graphic work.
Technique & Style
Strang executed The Widow in a quick, sketchy lithographic style, resulting in a soft, unfinished appearance. The contrast between dark, expressive lines and a lighter background draws attention to the widow's face, emphasizing her emotional state.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1900, The Widow is part of William Strang's body of work as a printmaker and illustrator. Strang's broader oeuvre includes illustrations for literary classics by authors like Bunyan, Cervantes, and Kipling.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Strang (13 February 1859 – 12 April 1921) was a Scottish painter and printmaker, notable for illustrating the works of Bunyan, Cervantes, Coleridge, Kipling, and others.
