Liquor Flask 1935 - 1942

Charles Caseau made this drawing of a liquor flask, sometime during his long life. Look at that delicate line! It reminds me of the subtle control an artist needs, a kind of focused vulnerability. I wonder about Caseau—what was he thinking as he outlined this flask? Was it a straightforward exercise in observation, or was there something more personal at play? The way the line wavers ever so slightly gives it a human touch, a sense of presence. I see an echo of Art Nouveau in those flowing, stylized decorations. Artists are always in conversation with each other, across time, riffing off each other's ideas. This image is also quite contemporary, like an image or stencil you might see today. This drawing feels simple and complete, and a testament to the power of looking closely.