Hair Pin c. 1937

Manuel G. Runyan's "Hair Pin" is rendered with watercolor and graphite, presenting a design rich in natural motifs. Dominating the composition are floral and foliate elements; flowers and leaves, symbols of growth, renewal, and beauty, that were prominent in classical art and continue to reappear across centuries. Consider Botticelli’s "Primavera," where Flora scatters blossoms, or the decorative programs of the Renaissance. Here, the flower on Runyan's hairpin, with its pearl-like center, is reminiscent of Venus rising from the sea. The bird perched atop the pin evokes a sense of freedom and transcendence. From ancient Egyptian soul-birds to Christian symbols of the Holy Spirit, the bird is a symbol that carries deep psychological resonance, representing humanity's longing for spiritual ascension. These symbols are not static; they evolve, carrying echoes of past meanings while adapting to new cultural contexts. Thus, Runyan's design becomes a vessel for cultural memory, resonating with layers of historical and psychological significance.