Inkwell c. 1937

William High’s ‘Inkwell,’ evokes a sense of classical order through its symmetrical arrangement and balanced composition. Executed with delicate lines and muted colors, the drawing depicts an inkwell with careful attention to its structure. The composition is vertically oriented, the inkwell is centrally placed, highlighting its function as the focal point. Notice how the circular and cylindrical forms of the inkwell are repeated and mirrored, creating a harmonious and visually pleasing effect. The pearl-like border adds an ornamental touch. The use of light and shadow is subtle, defining the object's shape and lending it a sense of three-dimensionality. The limited color palette, dominated by whites, creams, and hints of gold, enhances the drawing’s understated elegance and contributes to its timeless quality. Through its structural and formal qualities, the drawing transcends its subject matter to offer a reflection on form, balance, and design.