Bit c. 1939

"Bit" is a watercolor on paper by American artist Harry Mann Waddell, executed around 1939. The work depicts a close-up view of a bit, a metal mouthpiece used to control a horse. The detailed depiction of the bit, with its intricate design and careful rendering of the metal and leather, showcases Waddell's skill as a draftsman and his fascination with objects of everyday life. The composition is simple, placing the bit against a plain background, emphasizing its form and texture. "Bit" is a testament to Waddell's ability to capture the essence of an object with subtle yet impactful details.