Parian Ware Syrup Pitcher 1935 - 1942

Curator: Ah, isn't this charming? Before us, we have "Parian Ware Syrup Pitcher" by Richard Whitaker, a delicate pencil drawing dating from around 1935 to 1942. What’s your initial take? Editor: It’s funny, I instantly feel like I’ve stumbled upon an artifact from a slightly twee civilization! The detailed pencil work, the sort of old engraving style, gives it a quaint, almost wistful feel. What strikes you most? Curator: The sheer level of detail for what appears to be, from the style of the rendering, almost a practice piece, from, I guess, the artist’s personal sketchbook. Look at how Whitaker renders the form with such light pencil work. I bet that took him ages. Editor: Oh, absolutely! That shading really does bring out the clarity of the object. A pitcher is such an ancient symbol too—carrying associations with sustenance, hospitality, and even purification in some contexts. This makes the botanic, stylized, decoration speak even more. The eye is directed upward. What does that tell you? Curator: Well, the way the botanical design is almost embossed, in an old engraving style— I suppose it's trying to show off the texture of the piece in a pleasing manner. I’m just drawn to the slight asymmetry of the whole thing. There's this subtle energy in the off-kilter nature of this "amateur sketch". Editor: True. Maybe that asymmetry is what makes it feel so alive. It suggests an individual hand, a real maker behind it. You see, the vessel motif speaks to transformation, right? Taking something ordinary, liquid—syrup—and elevating it into something treasured. Curator: Definitely, definitely. It’s funny to see how mundane everyday objects become something of artistic interest, because they represent the familiar comfort we expect our living space to provide. Even though it’s a study, an amateur sketch. Editor: I love how something as simple as a syrup pitcher can spark such a deep dive into symbol and technique. Whitaker’s eye really managed to show the syrup pitcher from a really charming angle. Curator: Agreed. It’s a humble but ultimately satisfying sketch, and all of these kinds of artworks give the collection a real vitality that elevates the mood in the collection space.