Combination Latch/Lock c. 1936

James M. Lawson created this drawing of a Combination Latch/Lock, its date currently unknown, using graphite and colored pencil on paper. What might seem like a straightforward technical drawing actually opens a door to understanding the social dynamics around design and craftsmanship. In a time when industrialization was rapidly changing production, images like this played a crucial role. This was part of a project that hired unemployed artists during the Great Depression to document American design. Consider how institutions like the Index of American Design shaped what was considered valuable or worth preserving. Lawson’s drawing not only records the design of a functional object but also elevates it, suggesting an aesthetic quality in everyday items. This resonates with broader social concerns about preserving American identity and heritage amidst economic hardship. Understanding the historical context and institutional forces helps us see this drawing as more than just a record. It’s a reflection of cultural values and societal priorities during a transformative period in American history.