Pickle Jar c. 1939

Francis Law Durand made this watercolor of a pickle jar sometime between 1870 and 1920. It's so fascinating how Durand captures the essence of this everyday object with such care. The color palette is muted, almost monochromatic, which gives it a timeless quality. But then, those vibrant blue accents depicting vines add a playful energy, breaking up the stillness. You can almost feel the texture of the earthenware through Durand's delicate washes and subtle gradations. Look at how he handles the light, creating a sense of depth and volume. It reminds me of Giorgio Morandi, who transformed simple bottles and jars into objects of contemplation. In Durand's hands, this pickle jar becomes more than just a container; it's a testament to the beauty of the mundane. Art doesn’t have to be highfalutin, you know?