Copper Kettle 1935 - 1942

John Cutting drew this copper kettle with graphite and watercolor on paper. This detailed technical drawing gives us a glimpse into late 19th century design and craftsmanship, where everyday objects were both functional and aesthetically considered. The copper kettle, a common household item, reflects domestic life. It also reflects the Industrial Revolution in America, as copper became more readily available for mass production, influencing how people lived and worked. Technical drawings like these were vital for manufacturing and design, and were often produced in vocational training schools such as cutting may have attended. To fully understand this drawing, we need to explore the history of industrial design, craft education, and social changes during this period. Researching archives and design history can reveal the cultural values embedded in these everyday objects, reminding us that even the simplest items carry stories of society.