Utility Chest 1937

"Utility Chest" (1937) is a graphite drawing by American artist Henry Tomaszewski (1918-1998). The artwork, measuring 25.4 x 3.8 cm, portrays a simple wooden chest, rendered with meticulous detail. The chest's worn surface, visible grain, and a single keyhole suggest a history of use and a sense of everyday life. Tomaszewski, known for his realistic depictions of ordinary objects, utilizes a minimalist aesthetic to highlight the beauty found in the mundane. The drawing exemplifies his focus on form, texture, and the quiet poetry of everyday objects.