Silver Pitcher 1935

Giacinto Capelli made this drawing of a silver pitcher in 1935, most likely with graphite and colored pencil on paper. What I find striking is the controlled and almost scientific approach to rendering. It reminds me that artmaking is a process of close observation, just as much as it is about expression. I’m drawn to the areas where the graphite is layered to create the illusion of silver. Look at how Capelli uses tiny, precise marks to capture the reflective quality of the metal. There's a real care in describing the form and texture. It's a study in light and shadow, with the subtle shifts in tone suggesting the curve of the pitcher. The gold interior is a surprise, adding a touch of warmth to the otherwise cool palette. Capelli’s attention to detail recalls the work of artists like Giorgio Morandi, who found endless fascination in everyday objects. Both invite us to slow down and consider the quiet beauty of the things that surround us. And, like any good piece of art, this drawing invites us to look closely, to question, and to find our own meaning in the process.