Match Case for Wall c. 1938

Howell Rosenbaum made this rendering of a wall-mounted match case of indeterminate date using watercolor and graphite on paper. The focus on a utilitarian object invites us to consider the everyday aesthetics of American life. The match case, crowned by a golden eagle, evokes a complex tapestry of American identity and craftsmanship. The eagle, a symbol deeply entwined with American national identity, sits atop a humble, handcrafted object, a juxtaposition that encourages us to consider the relationship between national ideals and lived experiences. This interplay suggests the intersection of national pride and domestic life. Moreover, the match case, a common household item, speaks to the rituals and routines that shape our lives. It invites us to reflect on the significance of these objects in constructing our identities. What narratives do these items tell about our connection to history, culture, and community?