Cast Iron Balcony Rail c. 1936

Thomas Byrne made this sketch of a cast iron balcony rail with ink on paper. Look at how the lines dance and twirl, especially in the center, where it almost looks like an A is hidden amongst the decoration. There's something really interesting about how Byrne uses line. It's not just about describing the shape of the ironwork, it's about creating a sense of depth, you know? The shadows beneath the balcony are hatched with these confident, parallel lines, giving the whole thing a solid, grounded feeling. And those little curlicues! Each one feels so deliberate, like Byrne was really savoring the act of drawing. It reminds me a bit of some of Hockney’s architectural drawings, the way he can make something functional feel so alive and full of energy. Ultimately, it’s a great reminder that art isn't just about grand statements; it's about the joy of making, the pleasure of seeing, and the endless conversation between artists across time.