Painted Bellows c. 1940

This is a watercolor and graphite rendering of painted bellows by John Koehl. The bellows, an everyday object, is elevated through painted decoration. Note the oval cartouche at the center, depicting figures that echo classical or pastoral scenes. Consider how this decorative impulse links to our human need to ennoble even the most utilitarian items. We see this impulse echoed across centuries – from ancient Greek vases adorned with scenes of daily life and myth, to the elaborate embellishments on Renaissance armor. This human impulse towards decoration suggests a deeper need to imbue our surroundings with meaning and beauty. This object becomes more than just a tool; it becomes a vessel for cultural memory, subtly reminding us of our connection to past traditions. The image conveys both power and vulnerability, engaging the viewer on a subconscious level. Thus, the bellows embodies a cyclical progression, resurfacing through diverse historical contexts and evolving with the passage of time.