Squab Broiler c. 1942

"Squab Broiler" is a watercolor by American artist Francis Jennings (1915-1995), dating from circa 1942. The drawing depicts a freestanding metal stand with a yellow top and three splayed legs, designed for cooking squabs over a fire. The stand features a series of horizontal bars topped with spikes to hold the birds in place. Jennings's technical skill is evident in the detailed rendering of the metalwork and the subtle shading that gives the drawing a sense of depth. The drawing offers a glimpse into the culinary practices of the time, and the use of simple yet effective tools.