Original Watercolor of Roman Goddess Diana with

Original Watercolor of Roman Goddess Diana with Possible Connection to "Vanity Fair" Magazine

An original pen and watercolor drawing attributed to Gwen Davies entitled "Diana the Huntress," possibly submitted for inclusion in "Vanity Fair" magazine, ca. 1925. The drawing depicts a youthful Diana in a white tunic carrying a bow and arrow, with a quiver discarded nearby in the grass; these three attributes identify her as the Roman goddess of the hunt. Unsigned and undated, but pencil-inscribed verso as "'Diana the Huntress' for 'Vanity Fair' / Magazine / Gwen Davies / c 1925." (A typed label with this same information is also affixed to the back of the mat.) Currently hinged along the top to a greige mat with a metallic border. Scattered light foxing and minor loss to the lower corner, else near fine. The sight size of the watercolor is 9" x 12.5" while the overall mat size is 12" x 16 x .25."

A cursory examination of the online archives of "Vanity Fair" magazine did not reveal any results for the search terms "Diana the Huntress" or "Gwen Davies," but certainly the painterly treatment of the goddess, as well as the features of the landscape, are consistent with the highly stylized artistic traditions of the 1920s. The identity of the artist is also in question. It has been ventured that the artist may have been Gwendoline Davies (1882-1951), the well-known Welsh patron of the arts, or possibly Gwendoline Davies (1889-1976), an American artist known more for her abstract art. Whatever its origins, this depiction is a delightful example of Art Deco illustration.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!

qxp