Mug 1935 - 1942

Curator: Okay, so we're looking at Lillian Causey's "Mug," dating roughly from 1935 to 1942, created with drawing and watercolor. And, goodness, it’s a sweet little thing. Editor: It gives off such a whimsical vibe, almost like a page torn from a well-loved fairytale. The delicacy of the watercolor makes the light filter through the mug beautifully. Curator: Absolutely! It’s not just a mug; it's a stage. Note the little narrative Causey's painted around the glass. Tiny buildings, spires maybe, amidst these playful, almost folk-art floral flourishes. Editor: And consider how she captures the materiality of the glass itself. There’s a remarkable transparency achieved with just the subtlest washes of color. You can almost feel its cool, smooth surface. Curator: Yes, the way she handles light and shadow is wonderful. And the choice of the aged, toned paper stock gives it this gentle warmth, as if the object exists just slightly out of reach in the sepia tones of a fondly-recalled memory. What stories might this vessel hold, do you think? Was it on her table, perhaps souvenir from somewhere special, Moscow maybe? Editor: I see what you mean. It’s more than just a study; there’s a distinct sense of intimacy. Though the object itself is rather commonplace, the artistic touch elevates it, doesn't it? Curator: Precisely. And despite being rendered in what could be considered a casual medium—sketch, watercolor—there’s still such meticulous detail in the execution of each brushstroke and mark, this tension is everything in Causy's works! Editor: It's an interesting combination. There's that sense of spontaneity but a controlled and precise application of the watercolour— I agree that is is indeed the key! Well, I've suddenly got a fierce craving for a hot chocolate...or maybe just some nice cool water! Curator: It almost has that effect on the soul. Just makes you want to contemplate simplicity. It’s amazing what depth a simple sketch of everyday item, a mug no less, can stir.