Flat Iron Holder c. 1939

This drawing of a flat iron holder was made by Jacob Lipkin, sometime before his death in 1995. The original object would have been made from cast iron, a material associated with the industrial revolution, and also with domestic labor. The weight and robustness of the iron speaks to the repetitive, physical effort required for ironing clothes in the past. The form of the holder –its triangular shape and spoke-like design – not only provides stability and ventilation, but also has a stark, functional beauty. Lipkin's choice of this mundane object elevates it, prompting us to consider the design inherent in everyday tools. The drawing itself, with its precise lines and attention to detail, invites us to reflect on the value of craftsmanship and the artistry found in the most unexpected places. It encourages us to consider the relationship between mass production and the individual artistry.