Jar c. 1937

John Matulis made this drawing of a jar sometime in the twentieth century. Look at the way he renders the object: it's all about process, really. The jar itself is described with these warm, earthy tones, built up layer by layer. I like how Matulis focuses on the jar's surface. You can almost feel the texture of the clay, the way it might be rough in some spots, smooth in others. The colors blend and bleed together, creating these interesting patterns that feel both intentional and accidental. I’m drawn to the way he’s captured the shadows and highlights, giving the jar a real sense of depth and volume. Notice how the dark strokes kind of drip down the surface, like the jar is weeping. It reminds me a bit of Giorgio Morandi’s still lifes, you know? That same quiet, contemplative quality, where the everyday object becomes something really special. It’s like Matulis is saying, "Hey, look at this simple thing. Isn't it beautiful?"