Candlestick c. 1938

Charles Caseau made this drawing of a candlestick, we don't know exactly when, using graphite on paper. I love the way Caseau has approached this simple object with such care and attention to detail, turning the act of drawing into a process of discovery. The graphite gives the candlestick a soft, metallic sheen. It's almost like he's trying to capture not just the look of the object, but also its essence. Notice how he uses delicate gradations of tone to suggest the curves and contours of the candlestick. The base looks solid, anchored, while the stem rises with a gentle, almost organic curve. The shading around the hollow of the candlestick head is masterful, it really does look like a reflective metal surface. I’m reminded of Giorgio Morandi, who also elevated humble objects through his art. Caseau and Morandi share a quiet intensity and a focus on the subtle beauty of everyday life. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just about grand gestures, but about seeing the world with fresh eyes, and sharing that vision with others.