Artwork preview

Wall Painting and Baptismal Niche

Frank C. Barks

National Gallery of Art

This is a painting of a decorative architectural interior. The painting depicts a segment of an ornately decorated interior wall, featuring a central recessed alcove or niche. The niche is flanked by red and blue arched designs. The background includes geometric patterns in shades of red and ochre tile along the base of the wall and a checkerboard motif. Above the niche, there are decorative elements that frame the alcove in a semi-circular manner. The floor is made up of terra cotta tiles arranged in a diagonal pattern. The painting balances between realism and decorative abstraction, showcasing attention to color harmony and architectural detail.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1938
Medium
watercolor and graphite on paper
Dimensions
3345 × 4782 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original