Chalkware Cat c. 1940

This watercolor painting of a chalkware cat was made by Gertrude Koch. Chalkware, popular in the 19th century, was the "poor man's porcelain," a molded plaster that was painted and often varnished. The charm of chalkware lies in its deceptive quality. It mimics the appearance of more expensive materials like porcelain or bisque but is made from readily available, inexpensive materials. The appeal of chalkware was its affordability and accessibility, allowing people to own decorative items and participate in a culture of display. The process involved molding the plaster, letting it dry, and then meticulously painting the surface to resemble a ceramic object. This particular example, likely depicting an actual chalkware figure, reflects the broader social and economic dynamics of the time, where mass-produced goods aimed to emulate luxury items. The work invites us to reconsider how value is assigned to objects, and the role of craftsmanship in creating both aesthetic and social value.