Latch Plate c. 1936

Francis Law Durand made this drawing of a latch plate with graphite on paper. The mark-making is incredibly detailed and precise, giving the metal a real sense of weight and texture. What I love most is the way Durand builds up the tones, layering the graphite to create depth and shadow. You can almost feel the cool, rough surface of the iron. Notice the details around the handle and the keyhole, they're so carefully rendered. It’s clear Durand was interested in the process of translation, moving from the three-dimensional object to a two-dimensional representation. The small emblem at the top adds a layer of mystery to the piece. Its inclusion suggests a symbolic dimension to the latch plate, hinting at stories or histories beyond its utilitarian function. This reminds me a bit of the work of Charles Demuth, who also found beauty and complexity in everyday objects. Art is always talking to art, isn't it?