Vase 1935 - 1942

This vivid vase by Isidore Steinberg is rendered with gouache and graphite on paper. It may seem like a straightforward depiction, but the medium of gouache, opaque watercolor paint, is an intriguing choice. Traditionally favored for illustrations and design work rather than high art, gouache allowed Steinberg to capture the subtle gradations and the luster of the glass with a remarkable level of control. The graphite lines add definition to the form, giving it a sharp edge. The choice of materials and techniques speaks volumes about the context in which this vase was likely made. Rather than celebrating the free gesture of painting, Steinberg seems to emphasize precision and planning. This approach resonates with the aesthetics of industrial design, reflecting the ethos of mass production and its influence on artistic practices. By examining the materials and methods employed in this seemingly simple representation, we begin to appreciate the complex relationship between art, craft, and the world of manufacturing.