Silver Sugar Tongs c. 1937

Grace Halpin created this drawing of "Silver Sugar Tongs" with graphite on paper. The composition presents a delicate study in form and utility. The silver sugar tongs dominate the frame, their elegant U-shape softened by the curvature of the arms ending in small, spoon-like bowls. Halpin meticulously renders the gradations of light on the metal's surface. Note how this attention to detail captures the reflective qualities of silver, suggesting a tactile presence. To the left, a scaled-down version of the tongs is positioned above a ruler. Adjacent to Halpin's signature, a cartouche bears ornate initials, possibly alluding to ownership or makers marks. The drawing invites us to consider ideas around the representation of everyday objects and the relationship between form and function. Halpin's work prompts questions about how we assign value and meaning to the objects that surround us.