Covered Water Pitcher by Mario De Ferrante

1936

Covered Water Pitcher

Listen to curator's interpretation

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Curatorial notes

Mario De Ferrante made this drawing of a covered water pitcher sometime in the 20th century, using graphite on paper. The graphite is almost tentative, like he’s feeling his way around the form, trying to get it just right, but not quite. There’s this funny little dot, right in the middle of the pitcher’s body. What’s that about? Is it a mistake? A stray mark? Or is it meant to be there, some kind of hidden detail? It doesn't matter. It's what gives the piece its character, it's little point of intrigue, like a misplaced freckle. It's interesting how one little mark can change everything. I’m reminded of Giorgio Morandi, the way he’d paint the same bottles and jars over and over, each time finding something new. Or maybe Agnes Martin, with her subtle grids and delicate lines. It's like they're all having a conversation across time, exploring the endless possibilities of seeing and feeling.