Newspaper Wall Rack 1941

This watercolor painting shows a hanging wooden wall rack, probably made mid-century by Nicholas Amantea. I love imagining him making this; did he work from observation, carefully copying the handmade object? The wood carving is framed by maple leaves and a swan, with floral decorated textile hanging down. It makes me think about how people fill their homes with ornament, and the pleasure they take in everyday objects. You see the hand of the maker here, in the careful observation, the symmetry, and in the odd little details. The textile is especially beautiful in this picture. It’s easy to think of art history as a steady march of progress, but I like to remember that artists also inspire one another through the humbler things of daily life. This object becomes a celebration of the home, an inspiration, and a reminder of art’s capacity to elevate the ordinary.