Cookie Cutter c. 1941

This technical drawing by George Beyer showcases a cookie cutter, likely dating to the late 19th or early 20th century. The tool is rendered with care, highlighting the material qualities of the wood used in its construction. Note the handle, carved and shaped to fit comfortably in the hand, and the rotating wheel with its decorative, scalloped edge. One can imagine the satisfying feel of this object, and the repetitive motion involved in using it to cut dough. The artist's focus on the tool’s construction speaks to a broader interest in the value of handmade objects, at a time when industrial production was rapidly changing the landscape of everyday life. Beyer, in documenting this humble kitchen implement, elevates it to a subject worthy of artistic attention. This demonstrates the significance of craft traditions in shaping our material culture, and challenges conventional distinctions between art and everyday life.