Konische parasolknop of parapluknop van grijs-zwartgevlekt hoorn met ingelaten knop, op een handvat van roze-grijsgevlekt hoorn c. 1920

This umbrella handle was made by Gustav Schnitzler. I imagine that he really enjoyed the process of revealing the hidden patterns in the horn as he worked. The handle is horn, giving it a smooth, almost polished texture. The shades of gray, black, and pink swirling through the material remind me of geological patterns in rock. I’m drawn to how the contrasting light and dark areas create an undulating surface, like hills. Look closely at the way the horn is shaped at the top. It's not just a smooth curve, but has a slight indentation. You can see the precision and control Schnitzler had over the material. It makes me think about Brancusi’s sculptures, simple forms that elevate humble materials. It's a reminder that art is often about taking something ordinary and making us see it in a new way.