He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf (1863-1935) by Jessie Wilcox Smith. Giclee Print on Museum Quality Matte Paper. Premium Wood Framed Wall Art.

Jessie Wilcox Smith’s enchanting illustration, "He Was Chubby and Plump, a Right Jolly Old Elf," captures the whimsical spirit of childhood wonder and the festive allure of the Christmas season. As an art critic, one cannot overlook Smith's masterful ability to blend narrative and imagery, creating a piece that resonates with both young and old alike.

Born in Philadelphia in 1863, Jessie Wilcox Smith was a prominent figure in the Golden Age of American illustration. Her career blossomed in an era when women were beginning to make significant inroads in the arts. Smith was a student of the renowned Howard Pyle at the Drexel Institute of Art, Science, and Industry, where she honed her skills and developed her distinctive style.

Smith’s work is characterized by its warm, tender depictions of children and domestic scenes, often imbued with a sense of nostalgia and innocence. Her style is marked by soft lines, gentle colors, and an evocative use of light that brings her subjects to life. In this particular piece, Smith employs watercolor and gouache to achieve a dreamlike quality, perfectly suited to the magical subject matter of Santa Claus.

The illustration is part of a series created for Clement Clarke Moore’s "The Night Before Christmas," and it exemplifies Smith's philosophical approach of capturing the purity and joy of childhood. The piece is significant in the art world for its enduring charm and its role in shaping the visual culture of Christmas in America. The original artwork is held in a private collection, cherished as a quintessential example of early 20th-century American illustration.

Artist Name: Jessie Wilcox Smith

Artwork Name: He was chubby and plump

a right jolly old elf

Artwork Date: 1863-1935

Artist Nationality: American

Artistic Style or Movement: Golden Age of Illustration

Genre: Illustration

Period: Late 19th to early 20th century

Medium: Watercolor and gouache

Technique: Illustration

Cultural and Geographic Context: American

Thematic or Conceptual Context: Childhood

nostalgia

and holiday themes

Artist's Intent and Context: To capture the joy and magic of childhood and holiday spirit

Formal elements and Composition: Use of soft colors

detailed figures

and a focus on narrative and emotion.

This stunning print is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any space. Inspire your own moments of reflection and appreciation for art at its finest.
Order now and let this masterpiece transform your living space into a gallery of timeless art.

Our museum-quality fine art wall prints are designed for discerning art enthusiasts and collectors. Utilizing advanced 12-color giclée printing technology, each piece bursts with vibrant, true-to-life colors, capturing the essence of iconic masterpieces.
Elegantly framed in premium oak or ash wood, these prints are ready to hang and displayed on archival-grade, acid-free paper for a glare-free finish. The giclée printing process ensures exceptional resolution and detail, with colors hues and shades as close to the original artwork as possible.
Crafted with fade-resistant, pigment-based archival inks, they promise longevity and brilliance. Custom-built frames feature shatterproof plexiglass, offering protection and style. Available in various sizes, these eco-friendly prints use FSC-certified materials and responsibly sourced wood.
Key Features:
- Frame Material: Responsibly sourced oak or ash wood.
- Paper Finish: Smooth, glare-free matte; 200 gsm (80 lb), 0.26 mm (10.3 mils).
- Color Vibrancy: High-quality ink technology ensures vivid and accurate colors.
- Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass.
- Eco-Friendly: Printed on FSC-certified paper and wood.
- Ready-to-Hang: Includes a hanging kit for immediate display.
Experience timeless art with unmatched quality and sustainability.
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