Stoneware Crock c. 1936

Fred Weiss made this painting of a Stoneware Crock at an undetermined date using paint on paper. It’s interesting to see how the careful application of the paint is used to describe a utilitarian object. I love how the different hues of grey create a gentle play of light and shadow that almost brings the object to life. The paint is applied in thin layers, allowing the surface of the paper to subtly peek through. This evokes the texture of the pottery itself, rough yet smooth, sturdy but delicate. If you look closely at the swirls around the date ‘1790’ you see how the brushstrokes are made with confidence and flair. In a way, this piece reminds me of Morandi's still life paintings, where everyday objects are transformed through subtle attention to light and form. It reminds us of the simple, quiet beauty in everyday objects and how painting can make us see the world anew.