Cast and Wrought Iron Ornament c. 1936

Curator: Ray Price's "Cast and Wrought Iron Ornament," circa 1936. The watercolor and pencil sketch depicts just that, an ornamental ironwork piece, set against what appears to be a mausoleum or a similar architectural structure. Editor: Stark, wouldn't you say? Despite the intricate details of the ironwork, there’s something almost austere about the palette. Curator: It’s fascinating to consider this drawing within the context of the 1930s. The Great Depression profoundly impacted public works and artistic expression. Wrought iron, once a symbol of prosperity and artistry, might have carried different connotations during that period. Editor: The cross perched atop, for instance, takes on a new dimension. The cross isn’t merely a religious symbol; it signifies resurrection, hope emerging from difficult periods. Is the ornament part of something larger, an actual gate in a cemetery? Curator: Precisely, suggesting a somber context but, at the same time, highlighting the role of ornamentation within memorial architecture and the socio-political landscape. Editor: And the palmette designs repeating throughout, that classic motif signifying triumph over death and rebirth! Woven into the curves of the iron, these symbols layer with such powerful emotion and remembrance. Curator: The choice to represent this subject matter is significant. Price seemingly focuses on details, aspects of architectural ornamentation that reflect both function and artistry—serving as both a literal barrier and visual element that offers layered meaning. Editor: So much artistry lies within these spaces! Observing Ray Price's Iron Ornament makes you pause, reflect. A visual reminder that artistic visions have served throughout our most challenging eras.