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The Collation

“What manner o’thing is your crocodile?”: April 2018

The April crocodile mystery involves an original work of art, shown here in a detail. What’s going on with the odd-looking painting technique? 

Comments

watercolor (or ink?) and gouache? can’t quite make out whether there is underdrawing / ink involved. But I may be missing the point of the question.

Andras Kisery — March 27, 2018

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It appears to be the preliminary underpainting where the artist puts in the lights and darks before going on to the next stage.

Jan — March 27, 2018

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It looks like an ink wash, or watercolour.

Wendy — March 30, 2018

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It looks like a preliminary study after a painting possibly readied in shades of Black & White for printing.

Leatrice Mendelsohn — April 26, 2018

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The so-called “cartoon” for a large painting or mural.

Mary Dulany — April 26, 2018

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