Iron Carpet Stretcher c. 1936

Edgar L. Pearce's "Iron Carpet Stretcher" (c. 1936) is a gouache painting on paper depicting a simple, everyday tool. The artwork showcases Pearce's interest in the utilitarian objects of the industrial age. Rendered in muted tones, the stretcher's metallic sheen and the delicate details of the embossed foliage are carefully observed. The composition, centered on the object, presents a straightforward and almost minimalist approach, highlighting the object's form and function. This work exemplifies Pearce's focus on capturing the inherent beauty in the mundane, reflecting his fascination with the industrial world and its tools.