Lamp c. 1936

This is Matthew Mangiacotti’s 'Lamp', drawn sometime between 1855 and 1995. Here, a seemingly straightforward depiction of a lamp becomes a study in form and utility. The artist's engagement with materiality is evident, with each line contributing to the illusion of depth and texture. The lamp's design, featuring a cylindrical body atop a slender pedestal, reflects a blend of functionality and elegance. The artist uses graphite on paper to explore the lamp's contours. The meticulous rendering suggests an interest in the lamp's industrial design, as well as its potential for mass production. The rendering emphasizes the amount of care that went into creating the design in the first place. This drawing exemplifies the intersection of art, craft, and design. By elevating an everyday object to a subject of artistic inquiry, Mangiacotti prompts us to reconsider the value we place on functional items.