Mirror 1935 - 1942

This drawing of a mirror was made by an anonymous artist using pen and watercolor over graphite on laid paper. I love that the central plane of the mirror is left blank, like an empty canvas waiting for its image. It makes me think about the nature of reflection. Is a mirror a surface for revealing or concealing? Look at the dark-red hues of the mirror's frame, embellished with gold leaf trim. Such a contrast of dark and light must have been pleasing for the artist. I’m wondering if they were thinking of the Dutch still life painters? The symmetrical design is formal, yet there is a lightness to the drawing. The crest at the top of the mirror features a fierce eagle, wings spread as if ready to take flight. I imagine the artist experimenting with line, repeating and mirroring to bring the piece into being. It makes me think about all the unseen work that goes into making something that looks effortless.