Tea Kettle c. 1936

Mildred Ford's drawing presents a tea kettle, rendered with careful attention to its materiality. The surface of the kettle appears textured, covered in a pattern of small bumps that suggest a cast metal construction, perhaps iron. The handle, smooth and curved, contrasts with the body, emphasizing the different processes involved in its making. The drawing captures the weight and sturdiness of the object, highlighting its function as a durable, utilitarian item. There’s a clear interest in showing how it would have been constructed and assembled. Ford’s choice to depict this everyday object elevates it, inviting us to consider the labor and craftsmanship inherent in its production. The tea kettle, a staple in many households, here becomes a focal point for exploring the intersection of design, industry, and domestic life. It prompts questions about the social context of its use, and the unseen hands that shaped it.