Study for The Scarlet Letter 

Edwin Austin Abbey made this study for The Scarlet Letter using watercolor, a medium of transparency and fluidity. See how the watery pigments are allowed to bleed and mingle, creating atmospheric effects? Abbey was a celebrated illustrator, commissioned to depict scenes from literature for popular magazines. Watercolor was the perfect medium for this, allowing him to quickly capture the essence of a scene, imbuing it with emotion and drama, before the image was translated to print by engravers. The choice of watercolor also speaks to the social context of the time, as a medium embraced by both amateur and professional artists. Its accessibility allowed for a wider participation in art-making, blurring the lines between high art and popular culture. By appreciating the materials and processes of production, we gain a deeper understanding of the artwork's cultural significance.