Toy Fire Engine c. 1942

This vibrant watercolor, by Charles Henning, depicts a toy fire engine. Although it appears to be a simple illustration, the medium – watercolor – is actually key to its effect. Notice how Henning renders the various textures of the toy. The metal of the engine, the glossy coats of the horses, and the red-painted wheels, are all conjured through fluid washes of color. The original object was likely made through a combination of handcraft and industrial manufacturing. Artisans would have made models for the engine and horses, which then could be cast in multiples. The image brings together fine art practices, such as watercolor painting, and the more workaday world of toymaking. Henning elevates the toymaker's craft, while also reminding us that even seemingly mass-produced objects always rely on hand skills at some point in their making. This delightful watercolor makes us consider the labor involved in design and manufacturing, challenging the divide between art and commerce.