Drawer Pull c. 1936

This drawing of a drawer pull was rendered by Philip Johnson, likely in the mid-20th century. The piece is most likely a design drawing done in pencil and watercolor. Notice the even shading that gives the pull its lustrous, metallic look. It is carefully articulated. The symmetrical design evokes the streamlined aesthetic that emerged between the World Wars, an attempt to harmonize handcraft with machine production. The drawing also speaks to a division of labor. Someone, perhaps Johnson himself, designed the pull. Others would have been responsible for its fabrication. Consider the skill involved in casting the metal, polishing it to a high shine, and ensuring its seamless functionality. This division of labor is typical of industrial production, where design and manufacturing are often separate processes. Ultimately, this seemingly simple drawing invites us to consider the complex relationship between design, craft, and industrial production. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the often-unseen labor and expertise that bring everyday objects into being.