Candle Holder c. 1937

This is Harry G. Aberdeen’s 'Candle Holder', made with watercolor and graphite on paper. I love the soft, muted palette and the way Aberdeen uses the graphite to define the form and create the illusion of depth. It’s clear that Aberdeen was deeply engaged in the process of looking and trying to capture the essence of these everyday objects. The artist really paid attention to the material qualities of the candle holders. The metallic sheen, the way the light catches on the curved surfaces. In the largest holder, there's a delightful tension between the sharp, pointed end and the gentle curve of the handle, which adds a dynamic energy to the piece. I wonder what kind of brushes they used here? There's something of Giorgio Morandi in the way Aberdeen elevates these simple objects through careful observation and thoughtful rendering. Ultimately, this piece is a celebration of the beauty and intrigue that can be found in the most ordinary things, and that is worth celebrating.