Silver Vase of "Blue" Silver c. 1938

Frank M. Keane made this watercolor of a silver vase, and the way the color is laid down, it feels like he's thinking through how light defines form. Look at how he teases out the silver, not with a solid block of color, but with delicate washes of blues and purples. There's a tenderness to it, an almost hesitant touch that makes the metallic surface feel alive and breathing. It’s like he’s trying to capture not just the look of silver, but its essence, the way it plays with light and shadow. The gold accents pop because of the contrast with the cool tones, but they don’t overwhelm; they add a touch of warmth and luxury to the piece. It reminds me a bit of James McNeill Whistler's atmospheric studies, where the subject is less about exact representation and more about capturing a mood, a feeling. This vase isn't just an object; it's an exploration of color, light, and the quiet beauty of everyday things.