Bandbox Design c. 1937

Lawrence Flynn's Bandbox Design is like a dream on paper, a world conjured from cobalt blue, gentle creams, russet browns, and touches of yellow. I imagine Flynn hovering over the surface, his hand steady as he coaxes these fantastical figures into being. A chariot pulled by a winged beast, set against the simplest of backdrops. It's a scene that feels both ancient and utterly fresh. He probably thought about ancient greek pottery and illustrations of mythology, with it's emphasis on line and form, and the narrative that unfolds on the surface of the object. I wonder what the bandbox looked like that it decorated, how Flynn adapted the design to the circular form, and how the design changed according to its purpose. The trees on either side are like stage flats, framing the action, while the scattered urns hint at a story, or at least a good excuse to fill space with a pleasing form.