The Old Gentleman

Medium: Wood engraving
Dimensions: 8 x 11 inches (image), 12 3/4 x 18 1/2 inches (sheet)
Signature: Signed
Artist details: American, 1940
Date finished: 2003
Edition: of 50

Recommended by Paige (Collections Manager):
"One of my favorite wood engravings comes from the master himself, Barry Moser. This piece is a bit unusual for its use of colored paper, but is also a classic representation of Moser's impossibly fine lines. The blue paper compliments the animal's light eyes and surrounding darkness. I once read an interview where Moser talked about his love of opposites and how he uses them in work, like serious vs. comedic, expected vs. unexpected, complex vs. simple etc. This piece holds many opposites like the technical skill and traditional stylings compared to the often ignoble cow. I love how this cow gets a royal treatment only Barry Moser could give, complete with a laurel wreath and the title The Old Gentleman."