Cream Pitcher c. 1936

Here we see John Tarantino’s drawing of a cream pitcher, an unassuming subject depicted with nuanced attention to form. Notice how Tarantino uses thin, deliberate lines of pink and white to suggest the curvature of the glass. The alternating rhythm of these lines creates a visual texture, which implies depth and volume. This is further enhanced by the subtle gradations of tone around the base and handle, where shading creates a sense of three-dimensionality. Tarantino’s approach to depicting the pitcher is rooted in a formalist tradition where the subject matter becomes secondary to the exploration of line, shape, and tone. The interplay between these elements forms an abstract composition that invites us to consider how we perceive everyday objects through the lens of art. It's a reminder that even the most commonplace items can be a source of visual fascination when rendered with thoughtful consideration.