Cast Lead Dog c. 1939

This drawing of a cast lead dog was made by Herman Bader, who lived between 1855 and 1995, though we don't know exactly when. There’s something so compelling about the way this artist uses just tone to create form. I love the contrast between the smooth areas and the rougher textures, especially on the dog's face. It’s like the artist is feeling the way the light hits the surface, mapping out every little bump and hollow. And those tiny details, like the folds of skin around the dog's neck, really bring it to life, don’t they? There is a beautiful simplicity to the rendering. It reminds me a little of Philip Guston in its pared-back quality, that sense of getting to the essential, the bare bones of something. This drawing really invites you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of form and tone.