Small Carved Bellamy Eagle c. 1939

This watercolor painting, "Small Carved Bellamy Eagle," was made by Harriette Gale. The eagle form stretches across the page in muted shades of brown and gray, with light touches of red. I can imagine Gale’s hand moving delicately, tracing each feather and contour with precise brushstrokes. I wonder about Gale, painting this emblem of national pride. The Bellamy eagle was a popular form in the 19th century, often adorning buildings and furniture with its powerful symbolism. But here, it’s rendered with a gentle, almost wistful quality, perhaps reflecting a quieter, more personal connection to the symbol. The soft washes of color give the eagle a weightless appearance, as if it could float right off the page. This piece reminds me of folk art traditions, where everyday objects are transformed into something special through the artist's unique vision. I love how Gale embraces the simplicity of the form, reminding us that art can be found in the most unexpected places. And it reminds us that each artist looks at what came before and transforms it, bringing their own unique interpretation to the world.