Chalkware Ornament c. 1941

This watercolor titled Chalkware Ornament was created by Beatrice DeKalb. The work showcases two doves perched atop what appears to be a neoclassical column, immediately drawing the eye upward. The doves, rendered in muted tones, display a touching moment of connection, their beaks meeting gently. DeKalb's use of color is intriguing; the base is predominantly white, with strokes of yellow and minor red accents adding depth and texture, suggesting weathering or age. The column itself, while traditional in form, is simplified, almost abstracted, which removes it from any specific historical context, pushing it towards a more universal representation of support or foundation. The lack of background further isolates the sculpture, allowing us to focus on its formal qualities and the relationship between its components. The symmetry and the balanced composition speak to the ornament's function as a decorative object, yet DeKalb’s execution elevates it beyond mere craft. In its emphasis on form and delicate execution, the work invites contemplation on themes of love, memory, and the enduring appeal of classical motifs.