Door Knocker c. 1938

This drawing of a door knocker was made by Jack Staloff. It’s an image rendered in graphite on paper, and it's a bit like coming across a hidden treasure in a dusty attic, don't you think? I wonder what drew Staloff to this particular knocker? Maybe it was the play of light on the metal, the way the shadows defined its ornate details. You can almost feel Staloff’s hand moving across the paper, carefully tracing the contours of the object. The graphite is applied with such precision, yet there’s a softness too, a delicate touch that brings the knocker to life. Think about the act of knocking – a gesture of entry, of seeking connection. Staloff has captured a moment of anticipation. Staloff is in conversation with other artists of his time who explore everyday objects, like taking a humble subject and elevating it through careful observation and rendering. I find it fascinating how artists can transform the mundane into something magical, inviting us to see the world with fresh eyes.