Brooch and Earrings c. 1941

This is a drawing for a brooch and earrings by Roberta Elvis. Though the date of the piece is unknown, Elvis lived from 1855 to 1995, and we can guess that the design would have been drawn during the peak of her career. What’s fascinating here is the translation of precious materials into the realm of draftsmanship. The qualities of gold, pearls, and gemstones are approximated with colored pencil, taking on a new significance as rendered elements. The design process itself becomes a kind of artistic statement. These materials denote high value. The design suggests luxury, intended for the adornment of wealthy patrons. Yet, the design drawing is a piece of paper, humble in comparison to the implied jewels. This contrast encourages us to consider the labor and skill involved in crafting such items, and the distance between the idea and its material realization. We can appreciate this design drawing for its own unique qualities.