Judge Hand Puppet c. 1936

Beverly Chichester made this Judge Hand Puppet with, I’m guessing, watercolor and pencil, on paper. The whole scene is bathed in a soft, even light, giving the puppet a kind of quiet dignity. Look at the stark black of the judge’s robes against the pale backdrop, creating a dramatic contrast that draws you right in. The puppet itself is rendered with careful detail, from the slightly smudged lines of the face to the delicate folds of the fabric. I can almost feel Chichester's hand as she worked, coaxing the puppet to life with each stroke. And that profile view floating off to the side? It’s like she’s offering us a backstage pass, inviting us to see the puppet from all angles, to appreciate the artistry that went into its creation. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just about grand gestures, it’s about the small, intimate moments of connection between artist and subject.