Dodge MacKnight (Providence, 1860 - 1950, Sandwich, Massachusetts)
Almond Trees, Valserres, 1894-1895
Watercolor on paper, 75 x 55 cm (29 1/2 x 21 5/8 in.)
The main focus of this vertical watercolor on paper painting is an almond tree in full bloom. The dark purple trunk and branches hold delicate white and orange blossoms. There are several trees in the background that are loosely painted. On our right, in the distance, is a figure following a horse drawn cart. Next to that is a figure climbing the trunk of a nearby tree. There is greenery in the foreground and tan ground on our right. The sky is a light pink on the horizon, blending to a blue section with white at the top. The “Dodge Macknight” is signed in our lower left corner in red ink. The back of the watercolor features several other almond trees with white blossoms. A tree to our left has green leaves. The bottom of the paper is white, without any watercolors. The painting is surrounded by a thick, black mat that rests in a simple black frame.
Macknight Room
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.