Silver Teaspoon c. 1937

David P. Willoughby made this drawing of two silver teaspoons sometime in the twentieth century. The artist pays close attention to the tools, and rendering them on the page becomes a quiet, thoughtful act. It's so subtle. I love how the spoons aren't just flat representations; you can almost feel the cool, smooth surface of the metal. The artist uses soft, blended graphite to capture the way light reflects off the curved surfaces. Look at the spoon on the right. See the delicate details etched into the handle? Willoughby’s not just copying; he’s interpreting. It reminds me of some of Giorgio Morandi's still life paintings, where everyday objects become profound through careful observation. Willoughby invites us to slow down and appreciate the simple elegance of a common utensil. It’s a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places.