Necklace and Locket c. 1937

Editor: This is "Necklace and Locket," a pencil drawing made around 1937 by Molly Bodenstein. I’m immediately struck by the intricate details. The open locket gives me a peek into what’s hidden, and there's almost a nostalgic air about it. What do you notice when you look at it? Curator: For me, it's like peering into someone’s memory box. The precise lines of the pencil rendering showcase an incredible level of detail. It makes me wonder, what was Bodenstein thinking about? Was this a design she imagined, a portrait of a treasured possession, or maybe a symbol of something more profound? Does the symbolism, especially with the locket ajar, suggest an invitation to recall moments held within? Editor: That's fascinating. I hadn’t considered the open locket as an invitation, but now that you mention it, the symbolism becomes more apparent. Do you think it says something about the era it was created in? Curator: Absolutely. Jewelry in the 1930s was often tied to sentimentality and personal connection, offering a tangible anchor amidst uncertainty. This piece resonates as more than ornamentation; it feels like a narrative frozen in time. Doesn't it seem like the monogram etched on the left side wants to whisper a story of its own? I am really struck by the potential secrets locked (or unlocked!) inside the jewelry and the beautiful chain. It gives it a precious feel. Editor: I agree, there’s a definite sense of preciousness. It's funny, I initially just saw a pretty drawing of jewelry, but now I see all these layers of history and meaning! Curator: Exactly! Art invites us to wander beyond the surface, seeking resonance and unearthing new viewpoints with each gaze. It feels like a personal artifact we can now create our own narrative around! Editor: I love that, it definitely shifts how I understand decorative art now! Thank you!