Mortar and Pestle c. 1940

Clarence W. Dawson made this drawing of a mortar and pestle, we don't know when and with what. It's more than just a rendering of wooden objects; it's a meditation on form and light. Dawson's delicate hatching and subtle tonal variations capture the texture of the wood. Notice how the light dances across the curved surfaces, creating a sense of volume and depth. The drawing's neutral palette is almost monochromatic, and brings a quiet, contemplative mood. The artist uses gentle strokes to describe the simple utilitarian forms with such care. Look at the subtle lines that define the rim of the mortar, how they curve and meet, suggesting the object’s three-dimensionality. Dawson's work reminds me of Giorgio Morandi's still lifes, where everyday objects are imbued with a sense of timelessness and mystery through a focus on light, form, and texture. Both artists invite us to slow down and see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Ultimately, this drawing celebrates the beauty of simple things, seen with a patient eye.