Vase 

James Ensor, born in Belgium, made this drawing, titled Vase, using pencil on paper. Ensor’s formative years were spent in his mother’s souvenir shop where he was surrounded by peculiar objects such as carnival masks and exotic seashells. The arrangement of the objects and the use of light and shadow in this drawing create an atmosphere that is both familiar and otherworldly. The vase, seemingly suspended, disrupts conventional still-life depictions. Instead, it presents a personal interpretation of reality. Ensor once said, “My intention has always been to confront accepted standards.” This sentiment can be felt in the unnerving quality of this work. It subtly challenges us to question the narratives we construct, while inviting us to reflect on our own emotions and perceptions.