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  ELABORATE CALLIGRAPHY DRAWING FEATURING DIANA, GODDESS OF THE HUNT, RIDING A STAG, SIGNED AND DATED 1888
Dimensions (inches): Work - 22" x 28", Frame - 33.5" x 40"
Description:
Late 19th century American pen & ink calligraphy, executed in the most exuberant fashion and with great artistic merit. Stags were a popular subject matter for students of this craft, who often took classes between the 1860's and 1890's to complete this form of artwork, which was particularly fashionable at the time. Some drawings were a lot more dynamic than others and this is a great example of the best of what survives. Of particular interest is the presence of a rider. Kneeling upon the back of the animal, in a style akin to a circus acrobat, is Diana, Greek goddess of the hunt, grasping an antler and trailing a fine ribbon streamer that reads: "The Bounding Stag Bears Diana to the Chase." Below and about is a wide array of flora and fauna, with elaborately decorated letters that read: "A Specimen of Ornamental Penmanship by Mrs. S.E. Mooney, Hopedale, Ohio, 1888".

This drawing was found with a work executed by her husband, in the same scale and in the same year, probably completed while sitting beside her in the same class. Exemplary in its own right, the two were so graphically dissimilar that they were separated. It is of interest, however, to note the existence of the "sister" work, which featured an elephant--another popular image, that was also enhanced beyond the usual measure, showing a superior level of skill as well as creativity through both design and the addition of fancifully imaginative elements not usually present.

Mounting: This is a pressure mount between 100% cotton twill, black in color, and U.V. protective Plexiglas. The black fabric was treated to reduce excess dye. An acid-free agent was added to the wash to further set the dye and the fabric was heat-treated for the same purpose.

Condition: There is very minor overall oxidation and there is minor water staining along the bottom edge.
   
Primary Color: white, black, gold
Earliest Date: 1888
Latest Date: 1888
For Sale Status: Available
Price $7,500
E-mail: info@jeffbridgman.com
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