Shaker Man's Hat c. 1936

Editor: So, here we have "Shaker Man's Hat," a pencil drawing from around 1936 by Ingrid Selmer-Larsen. It's interesting how a simple object like a hat is rendered so carefully. What do you see in this seemingly plain portrait? Curator: I see more than just a hat. Consider the Shakers – their craftsmanship was central to their belief system. This drawing, with its precise pencil strokes, elevates the hat, this crafted object, beyond mere utility. It's a document of labor, of the making. What kind of material do you think this hat is made of, judging from the artist’s rendering of the textures? Editor: It looks like maybe felt? Which feels… practical, sturdy. It definitely aligns with the Shaker values I've read about. How does the social context affect our interpretation of it? Curator: Precisely! Think about the production of felt, the sheep rearing, the carding, the fulling... it speaks of an entire social network and its associated manual labour. The drawing isn't just a likeness; it's an index of all these processes, even consumption. And by documenting it, Larsen challenges our notions about 'high' art. The humble hat becomes worthy of contemplation. Editor: So, it’s about acknowledging the value embedded within the production and purpose of this seemingly ordinary item? Curator: Exactly. This isn't just portraiture; it’s a testament to the materials, the process, and the people that brought it into being, making a point of aesthetic appreciation in the everyday object. It shifts the focus away from just visual appeal and invites us to examine the entire web of creation and usage. Editor: That’s a fascinating perspective, repositioning our focus. Thanks, that gives me a lot to consider when I look at everyday objects now! Curator: Indeed! And it reminds us to appreciate the hidden histories woven into the simplest things.