Pa. German Chalkware Chicken c. 1938

Frank McEntee rendered this Pa. German Chalkware Chicken with watercolor, a humble medium for a humble object. Chalkware figures were common in the 19th century, particularly among the Pennsylvania Dutch, and served as affordable alternatives to more expensive ceramics and porcelains. The material itself, a simple plaster, was easily molded and painted, allowing for a range of decorative styles and forms. The original object had a modest scale, and likely made with simple tools. The image captures the essence of folk art production, where accessible materials and traditional techniques were employed by artisans to create objects for everyday life. The level of detail in the rendering suggests an appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in making these utilitarian objects. Here we see a convergence of creative practices, situated between craft, design, and folk art, reminding us that all art is rooted in material, making, and context.