Carving "Soul in Purgatory" 1938

Ethel Dougan's 1938 carving "Soul in Purgatory" depicts a figure with hands clasped in prayer, seemingly trapped within a jagged, fire-like enclosure. This drawing, likely a preparatory sketch for a larger sculpture, captures the essence of the artist's sculptural style, characterized by its expressive and simplified forms. Dougan, a prolific American artist, utilized wood, stone, and bronze as her primary mediums, often exploring themes of spirituality and the human condition. "Soul in Purgatory" exemplifies her ability to convey profound emotion through the power of abstract form and the evocative qualities of her chosen materials.