-Lion on Tub c. 1920 - 1934

This golden figure of a Lion on Tub was made at the A. C. Williams Company. Can you imagine the hand that held this object, carefully carving and shaping this lion and its tub? This is a solid piece, isn't it? No messing around, just the essential form of the lion captured in metal. The gold is bright, not subtle, but that’s part of its charm. You can see the marks of the maker in the texture, like a map of its making. I like how the lion is holding its paws, as if in thought, perched on the tub. It reminds me of folk art, where things are made with whatever’s at hand, with a directness that’s really appealing. You know, there’s a real conversation that artists have across time. We look at each other's work and steal ideas, or get inspired to do something totally different! This little piece, with its simple joy, has something to say.