Bean Pot c. 1939

Georgine E. Mason made this drawing of a bean pot with what looks like watercolor or ink, a medium that's all about layers, stains, and letting the paper do some of the work. It's not about hiding the process; it's about the joy of watching the pigment settle. The color here is so subtle, a warm, earthy brown that feels almost edible. Mason hasn’t gone for photo-realism. Instead, she’s focused on capturing the essence of the pot, the way the light catches on its rounded form. See that little patch of darker pigment near the base? It’s like a shadow, but also a smudge, a reminder that this is a handmade object, both the pot itself and the drawing. This piece has a similar mood to some of Morandi’s still life paintings, where everyday objects become these monumental, quiet presences. Like Morandi, Mason invites us to slow down and really see the beauty in the ordinary. It's a humble, honest piece that celebrates the simple pleasures of life.