Doll - "Mary" c. 1939

Josephine Romano made this small watercolor, called "Mary," at some point in the 20th century and what strikes me is how the material sensibility, the way she works with color, line, and water, opens up a space for mystery and childlike wonder. The whole piece is suffused with a muted palette. I love the way Romano uses these thin washes, building up layers of gentle color to create depth and volume. The dress looks like it's made of the most lovely vintage fabric, almost like a memory of a cloth. Look at the way the blue ribbon cinches the doll’s waist, a pop of color that draws the eye and holds the composition together. The doll’s face is so interesting, too. There is a slight awkwardness to it that gives her a very distinct personality. It reminds me a little of Balthus' paintings, in that there is a delicate balance between innocence and something a little bit more… knowing. It's a wonderful example of how a simple image can suggest a world of stories and feelings. It feels like an open-ended conversation.