Harry Willson Watrous (American, 1857-1940)

Although originally from San Francisco and New York, Watrous received his formal training in French academic painting at the Académie Julian in Paris from 1881 to 1882. While in Paris, he was greatly influenced by the highly-finished works by the French academic masters Jean-Léon Gérome and William Adolphe Bouguereau. Watrous returned to America following his studies, but he continued to produce paintings of exceptionally fine detail and finish throughout his career. From 1905 to 1918, he focused on creating stylized, figural compositions, depicting elegant women in decorative interiors. Painted circa 1915, The Line of Love is a captivating example of his work from this period. In this image, the simple, pastel wallpaper contrasts with the woman’s striking silhouette in a way that successfully highlights Watrous’s delicate, detailed handling of her vibrant auburn hair and the semi-transparent chiffon of her dress.