on Panel. Panel laid on a painted masonite backing. Inscribed in black ink by the artist and her studio manager, Rowan James, on the masonite verso: "W. Barnes-Graham / Small Vortex no. 1A / Cat No. 28/51/0 (A)". William Jackson Gallery, London label and W. Barnes Graham Retrospective Exhibition (1989-90) label affixed to frame verso with W. B-G. Cat No. 28/51/0 inscribed. This painting is from Barns-Graham's most significant body of work, inspired by her 1949 trip the Grindelwald Glacier in Switzerland; she describes the impact of her experience as such "The massive strength and size of the glaciers, the fantastic shapes, the contrast of solidity and transparency, the many reflected colours in the strong light...This likeness to glass and transparency, combined with solid rough ridges made me wish to combine in a work all angles at once, from above, through, and all round, as a bird flies, a total experience". Wilhelmina Barns-Graham (Scottish, 1912-2004). From a Larchmont, NY estate. We would like the thank the Wilhelmina Barns-Graham Trust for their assistance in cataloging this work. - Dimensions: 9" high x 11" wide.
Condition
The painting appears to be in very good original condition. The pigment and panel support are stable; there are no losses, no craquelure or cracking, and no indication of flaking. The painting does not fluoresce under UV light; there is no evidence of retouching or restoration. The surface is clean and has likely been housed in its frame, behind glass since the 1990's.