Bronze Powder Flask c. 1939

George V. Vezolles made this drawing of a bronze powder flask sometime between 1900 and 1950. It presents a fascinating glimpse into the relationship between art, craft, and industrial production in early 20th century America. Powder flasks like this one were once essential tools, used to measure and dispense gunpowder for firearms. By the time this image was made, they had largely been replaced by cartridges. So why record this object? The flask's intricate ornamentation elevates it beyond mere utility. The detailed floral design and careful craftsmanship speak to a bygone era of artisanal production, one that was increasingly being displaced by mass manufacturing. Vezolles' drawing, therefore, can be understood as a kind of historical record, preserving the memory of a time when even functional objects were imbued with artistic expression. To better understand its significance, we might delve into archives of design and decorative arts to trace the changing status of hand-crafted objects in an industrializing world.