Trivet c. 1939

Albert Rudin rendered this drawing of a trivet with graphite and colored pencil, its dimensions roughly 40 by 30 centimeters. The composition is divided into two distinct parts: a circular trivet viewed from above and another from the side. The color palette is minimal, predominantly featuring muted grays and browns, which gives the piece a somber tone. The drawing’s impact lies in its geometric forms and linear precision. Rudin employs symmetry to highlight the trivet’s design. The circular form is a study in radial balance, emanating from a dense central point, while the trefoil motifs are distributed evenly. This emphasis on structure is more than just descriptive. By deconstructing the object into its constituent shapes, Rudin invites us to consider how design organizes space and meaning. The linear quality emphasizes the trivet's structural integrity, which is further examined when viewed horizontally. This drawing asks us to consider how everyday objects embody intricate design principles and how these principles can be visually dissected and appreciated.