Collar c. 1938

Andrew Topolosky created this watercolour of a 'Collar', although the date remains unknown. The delicacy of the frills and the ornate floral pattern create a strong impression of fragility. The near monochrome palette focuses our attention on the form and texture of the collar itself. Topolosky has presented us with more than a simple depiction of a garment; the collar is severed from its context and the body. This invites us to consider the meaning behind such a representation. The image presents a semiotic sign which is an index of identity and status within a particular social context. The artist invites us to deconstruct the collar's cultural significance as part of an intricate interplay between fashion, identity, and social expectations. Note how the watercolor technique captures the tactile quality of the material. This elevates the craft involved, transforming an everyday object into a focal point for broader cultural questions about art, representation, and meaning.