Curatorial Narrative In 1919, the anonymous artist’s “God Mother Near” stood at the cusp of the Art Deco movement, which emphasized geometric forms, metallic sheen, and a newfound sense of modernity. The marine/ seascape subject matter was de rigueur for this period, as artists sought to capture the dynamism of the ocean and its relationship with human endeavor. The linear brushwork characteristic of the era is evident here, imbuing the scene with a sense of tension and urgency. The anonymous artist’s palette, centered on a teal background, provides an atmospheric weight that draws the viewer into the depths of the composition. Against this dark blue expanse, white and gray tones for the angel and soldiers create a striking contrast, evoking the sheen of polished metal or the luster of fine porcelain. When enlarged to 44×55, the spatial rhythm of the composition becomes more pronounced, with the horizontal sweep of the wave-line c