Cheshire Cat (1915) Costume Design for Alice in Wonderland (1915) by William Penhallow Henderson. Archival Print on Museum Quality Matte Paper. Premium Wood Framed Wall Art. Optimised Aspect Ratio.

William Penhallow Henderson's "Cheshire Cat" (1915) Costume Design for "Alice in Wonderland" is a captivating intersection of art and theatrical design, demonstrating Henderson's unique contribution to early 20th-century American art. As an art critic, one cannot overlook the whimsical yet profound nature of this piece, which embodies the playful yet enigmatic essence of Lewis Carroll's beloved character.

Born in 1877, William Penhallow Henderson was an American painter, architect, and designer who became a significant figure in the Santa Fe art scene. His artistic journey began at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he was influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement and later by the vibrant colors and forms of the Southwest. Henderson's work often reflects a blend of these influences, characterized by a vivid palette and a keen sense of design.

In his "Cheshire Cat" costume design, Henderson employs a whimsical style, using bold lines and vibrant colors to capture the surreal and mischievous spirit of the character. The piece is a testament to Henderson's philosophical approach, which sought to merge art with everyday life and elevate the theatrical experience. The use of watercolor and ink highlights his skill in blending fine art with practical design, making it both visually striking and functional for the stage.

This costume design is significant as it showcases Henderson's ability to translate literary whimsy into visual form, contributing to the broader narrative of American Modernism. The original design is part of the collection at the New Mexico Museum of Art, where it continues to inspire and delight audiences with its imaginative flair.

Artist Name: William Penhallow Henderson

Artwork Name: Cheshire Cat Costume Design for Alice in Wonderland

Artwork Date: 1915

Artist Nationality: American

Artistic Style or Movement: Modernism

Genre: Costume Design

Period: Early 20th Century

Medium: Watercolor and ink on paper

Technique: Illustration

Cultural and Geographic Context: United States

Thematic or Conceptual Context: Interpretation of literary work

Artist's Intent and Context: To create a visual representation for a theatrical production

Formal elements and Composition: Use of vibrant colors and whimsical forms.

Elevate your space with museum-quality fine art prints. Archival inks, oak or ash frames, sustainable materials. Ready to hang, timeless style.

Bring the elegance of timeless art into your home with this museum-grade wall print, designed for discerning collectors and art lovers alike. More than décor, this print invites moments of reflection and appreciation, transforming your space into a personal gallery.

Each print is crafted to the highest standard:

True-to-life color & detail – Printed with archival, pigment-based inks for exceptional depth and lasting vibrancy.

Premium framing options – Custom-built in natural oak or ash wood with shatterproof plexiglass for durability and elegance.

Gallery-standard materials – Archival-grade, acid-free paper with a glare-free finish.

Sustainable craftsmanship – FSC-certified papers and responsibly sourced wood frames.

Ready to hang – Delivered fully framed and display-ready.

Don’t miss your chance to own a masterpiece that endures across generations.
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