Circular Desk c. 1936

Cornelius Frazier made this drawing of a circular desk, we don’t know exactly when. The color palette is warm and inviting, focusing on various shades of brown to capture the rich tones of the wood. I’m interested in Frazier's commitment to the process, emphasizing the labor and skill involved in furniture design. I particularly notice the tabletop, which curves gently. You can almost feel the smoothness of the surface, imagining the way light would play across it. The drawers are rendered with such care, each line precise. The shadows and subtle highlights add depth, making them feel almost three-dimensional. It reminds me of the work of Josef Albers, who explored color relationships through simple geometric forms. Just as Albers sought to reveal the complexities within seemingly basic compositions, Frazier uncovers the beauty and potential in everyday objects. It's a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places.