Powder Flask c. 1936

Kurt Melzer created this watercolour and graphite image of a Powder Flask sometime in the 20th century, giving us two versions of the same object. It’s really interesting how Melzer uses a restricted palette to suggest the look and feel of the metal and wood, while on the left a simple line drawing gives us all the information we need about its shape and form. I love the way the colours pool and blend on the right, how the artist lets the water do some of the work, giving the image depth and texture. Look closely and you’ll see, inside the flask on the right, what looks like a carved image, maybe of some intertwining sea creatures. It feels like a little world contained within the larger form, an idea within an idea. Melzer reminds me of Alfred Stieglitz, who was also interested in the relationship between photography and drawing, pushing the boundaries of what each medium could do. Ultimately, it's this kind of playful exploration that makes art so endlessly fascinating.