Wrought Iron Latch Lock c. 1936

Editor: This is a watercolour illustration from 1936 of a wrought iron latch lock by Henry Meyers. There is something almost nostalgic in how this utilitarian object is depicted. How do you interpret this work? Curator: This depiction of everyday hardware can be interpreted through a socio-political lens. During the 1930s, there was a societal reevaluation of the "ordinary," with the rise of documentary photography and a renewed appreciation for labor and craft. This isn’t merely a record; it's about valuing the often-overlooked elements of our built environment. Who was Henry Meyers and what was his connection to the lock? Editor: The description available focuses on the work itself, not on the artist's biography unfortunately. Perhaps it was made by an architect for technical documentation, maybe even documentation by the WPA? Curator: Precisely! The Works Progress Administration encouraged art that reflected and celebrated American industry. The focus on the functional beauty of a lock aligns with this ethos. It could even signify security in times of great uncertainty, something to safeguard your home against social disorder. Do you agree with this political subtext? Editor: I see what you mean. There is a sense of security embedded into this artwork. The way it's presented feels solid, sturdy. I did not think about the WPA. Curator: These objects, rendered with such care, elevate the mundane and subtly remind us of the labor, resilience, and protection in difficult times. That changes the perspective, doesn't it? Editor: It definitely does! I never considered art like this as a form of quiet political commentary. It’s given me a fresh perspective on the art of this era.