The Lady of the Decoration

Harry Clarke , Irish, 1889-1931

Title

Date1914

MediumGraphite, ink and watercolour on paper

Dimensions

53.2 × 30.5 cm

Signedlower right: HARRY CLARKE / 1914

Credit Line Purchased, with the support of the Friends of the National Gallery of Ireland (Patrons of Irish Art Funds), 2025

Object numberNGI.2025.39

DescriptionThis large-scale illustration, drawn in pen and ink with watercolour was made for reproduction as a colour lithograph on a calendar for a paint supplier, John Duthie of Glasgow. Drawn with confidence, the flowing composition incorporates Harry Clarke’s characteristic fantastical figures and decorative elements. It is a masterwork, a brilliantly realised work on paper that draws attention to both Clarke’s skill as a draughtsman and his unique vision of the world. The subject may have been inspired by a popular novel written by Frances Little, entitled The Lady of the Decoration, first published in 1907. The story relates the experiences of a young American woman travelling through Japan and her journey from uncertainty to self-discovery. In Clarke’s drawing, the maximalist areas of overlaid pattern and colour are balanced by areas plainer passages, for example in the blue patterned white train and the vivid lemon yellow background. The artist’s name, in readable capital letters points to its function to promote his work more widely.
ProvenancePurchased, Adam's Auctioneers, Dublin, Important Irish Sale, 24 September 2025, Lot 21