Crock c. 1939

This watercolor of a crock was created by John Tarantino in the 20th century. Here we see the depiction of an everyday object elevated through artistic representation. The crock, adorned with a horse and stylized motifs, speaks to the intersection of folk art and utilitarian design. It invites us to consider the cultural context in which such objects were not merely functional, but also carriers of identity and meaning. During Tarantino’s lifetime, there was a burgeoning interest in American folk art traditions, part of a broader search for national identity. The image of a horse has many potential meanings: freedom, labor, rural life. How might these resonate differently depending on one’s social position and historical moment? Tarantino seems to be asking us to consider how the ordinary objects that surround us are imbued with cultural significance, reflecting both personal stories and collective values.