Saddle Bags c. 1938

Edward Jewett made this watercolor of "Saddle Bags" sometime in the 20th century, and the even, all-over tone of the brown wash gives it an almost photographic feel. It's like he’s not trying to trick us with any painterly flourishes, but is instead focused on careful recording. Look closely, though, and you can see the way the pigment pools in the textured details of the leatherwork, creating subtle tonal variations and a real sense of depth. It’s the kind of understated beauty you find in folk art, where the process is as much about honoring the subject as it is about showing off skill. The way Jewett captures the light on the worn leather is especially lovely. There's a dedication to craft that reminds me a bit of Charles Sheeler's precisionism, though Jewett brings a warmer, more human touch. Ultimately, it's a testament to how much artistry can be found in simple observation.