Pewter Teapot 1935 - 1942

John Tarantino’s “Pewter Teapot” captures a humble object with incredible precision, using what looks like watercolor on paper. The metallic sheen, achieved through delicate gradations of gray, speaks to an understanding of light and form. It's like he’s trying to figure out the teapotness of the teapot. Look closely and you’ll see how the subtle shifts in tone create a sense of volume and depth, making the teapot appear almost three-dimensional. The handle is where you can really see his mark-making skill. It's rendered in warm browns and reds, contrasting beautifully with the cool grays of the teapot’s body. The surface of the paper is smooth, almost velvety, which adds to the overall feeling of quiet contemplation. The rendering feels almost photographic in it's dedication to capturing the light. I’m reminded of Morandi and his endless quest to understand his chosen objects. Like Morandi, Tarantino shows us that even the most ordinary things can be a source of endless fascination.