Silver Teapot c. 1937

This silver teapot was made by Hans Westendorff at an undetermined time using what appears to be graphite on paper. Look at the way the artist uses line here, a kind of architectural draftsmanship, so precise, but with a sense of flow, like calligraphy. The drawing appears technically perfect, but I’m more interested in the subtle nuances; the controlled gradient of tone that creates volume on the object, and the sheer artistry of the ornamentation around the edge. The interplay of light and shadow gives a sense of depth and weight to the metallic surface. Note the intricate details on the spout, handle, and lid. There’s something so satisfying about the careful execution, the almost meditative quality of the repetitive patterns, like knitting or crocheting. For me, this drawing really chimes with the work of Agnes Martin, who also had an interest in the grid. While her work might seem minimal in comparison, both artists share a fascination with the quiet beauty of repetition.