Spur c. 1940

Robert W.R. Taylor made this drawing of a spur, using what looks like watercolor, to achieve a high level of detail. What strikes me is the way Taylor captures the texture of the metal. It's not just about the shine, but also the dullness, the wear and tear. It reminds me that artmaking is about close observation, a real sensitivity to the way things feel and look. See how the lines are so precise in some areas, suggesting a real interest in accuracy. It's as though he wants us to see the spur as a functional object, but also as something beautiful and crafted. Think about the little details – the way the light catches on the metal, the subtle gradations of tone. There’s a real sense of care, of attention to detail. Taylor embraces ambiguity, allowing us to see the spur in different ways. It reminds me of the work of Charles Demuth, who was able to find the sublime in everyday objects.