Purse c. 1938

This watercolor of a purse, by Ralph Morton, is rendered with such care, it’s like he’s trying to capture not just how it looks, but how it feels to hold something precious. Look at the way Morton uses the watercolor. The paint isn’t just laid down; it's coaxed, almost breathed, onto the paper. The brown of the purse is not just one shade, but a blend of tones that give it depth and a tactile quality. The embroidered flowers add a burst of color, a playful contrast to the sober background. That one little blue flower, tucked away on the left, it’s like a tiny rebellion against the seriousness of the rest of the composition. It’s like Morton is whispering, "Don’t take things too seriously, there’s always room for a little joy." I'm reminded of Manet's flower paintings, where the brushstrokes seem to dance with a similar lightness and ease. In the end, it's this openness to possibility that makes the piece so engaging.