Pack Saddle 1935 - 1942

Here we see Frank C. Barks' watercolour painting of a Pack Saddle, an intimate study rendered with delicate precision. The composition presents the saddle in soft focus, highlighting the materiality and geometric forms of the object. Barks' structural rendering of the Pack Saddle allows us to view the object both practically and theoretically. The saddle is depicted not only as a functional tool, but also as a collection of shapes, lines, and textures. Notice how the linear pattern of the wood grain contrasts with the smooth, curved leather straps, each element adding a layer to the structure of the artwork. The pale background emphasises the saddle's form, reducing any sense of depth, and drawing attention to its spatial relationship. Barks' technique highlights the saddle's design, leading us to reflect on the cultural and historical contexts in which it exists. It is more than an image; it is an invitation to explore the layers of meaning embedded within a simple artifact.