Harrison Fisher

(1875 - 1934) 

"Maiden on an Island"

( Next the maiden on an island )

Titled "Hiawatha" by the artist in pencil below the figure's left foot.

illustration on page 127

circa 1906
Watercolor, gouache, and pencil on paper

signed by the artist

image area

size 15 3/8" wide x 19 1/2" high

framed size

size 22 1/2" wide x 26 1/2" high

original illustration from the epic Indian poem "The Song of Hiawatha" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

SOLD

 

Absolutely breathtaking image of an Indian maiden sitting in thought on a hide rug beside a large painted olla.  This may well be the finest illustration from Fisher's Hiawatha, rendered with great care and wonderful detail.  Figure is dressed in a painted buckskin dress, leggings, and moccasins, with beadwork braided into her hair.  The maiden is a classic Fisher beauty with strong features and a willful pose and expression.  Figure is contrasted against a loose, black wash in the background.  Line work and brushwork work together to sculpt the figure, giving her a strong presence and a wonderful three dimensional quality. Truly Stunning!

Detail of maiden.

 

Very good condition overall.  Very minor age yellowing. Framed in beautiful Art Deco period painted wood and plaster frame in good condition with typical age wear.  

Detail with artist's signature.

 

Detail of hand and olla.

" ...Next the Maiden on an island,

 In the centre of an island;

 And the song this shape suggested

 Was though you are at a distance,

 Were upon some far off island, 

Such the spell I cast upon you, 

Such the magic power of passion, 

I could straightway draw you to me!"

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