Toleware Water Can c. 1938

John H. Tercuzzi painted this ‘Toleware Water Can’ with what looks like watercolor on paper. Look how the red, orange, and grey blend, creating a sense of age. It’s a bit like how we build up layers in painting, letting the history of the object show through. I love the way Tercuzzi handles the surface, mimicking the wear and tear of an old watering can. You can almost feel the rust and faded paint. The floral design on the front is so charming against the metal backdrop. There’s a real tension between the decorative and the functional. Notice that the flowers are not quite centered, not quite perfect, lending the image a gentle realness. This piece reminds me of some of Fairfield Porter’s still lifes, that same attention to everyday objects and the beauty found in the mundane. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t always need to shout, sometimes the quietest voices are the most profound.