The Rose Tree: An Original Pen and Ink Drawing
Unpublished, 1902.
An exquisite, detailed original drawing in pen and ink on vellum. 19.5 x 17cm (7.7 x 6.7 inches). Signed by the artist in the lower left hand corner. The drawing is captioned "The Rose Tree" in the top right hand corner in Jessie's distinctive calligraphy. The image is a fine, intricate design combining the use of solid lines, elaborate floral motifs and dotted lines. The central figure is a pre-Raphaelite maiden, with a sweeping crinoline skirt, garlanded with roses which harmonise with the rose tree behind the maiden's head. In bright, clean condition, the vellum mounted on board.
This image is one of the finest examples of Jessie King's detailed and imaginative early style that we have encountered. The influence of Aubrey Beardsley's intricate line drawing is clearly observed, whilst the Art Nouveau swirls, curves and roses are so typical of the early twentieth century Glasgow School designs.
Colin White says of King's early work, "Her early drawings made up of lines and dots so fine that only a sharp-eyed child or an adult equipped with a good magnifying glass could resolve them, are testimony to the acuteness of her vision and the steadiness of her hand. Her preference for drawing in pen and ink on vellum was a mark of her confidence. A coated and burnished vellum surface enhances the richness of every stroke of the pen, but the medium is unforgiving and does not allow for mistakes."
PROVENANCE: Exhibition notice from Barclay Lennie Gallery.
Stock ID: 39486
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