Lamp c. 1938

This meticulous drawing of a lamp was made by Charles Caseau, who lived a long life, from 1880 to 1995. The artist has described its form in exquisite detail with graphite on paper. I imagine Caseau’s focus was intense, as he brought the object into being, carefully outlining the forms, with delicate attention to the interplay of light and shadow. See how the column rises, step by step, supporting the ornate glass dome? He coaxes the silvery sheen of glass from the humble materials of paper and graphite. I wonder, was Caseau interested in industrial design? Or perhaps, did he enjoy the challenge of describing complex shapes, or capturing light on a reflective surface? This reminds me of other artists who work with precision and care, like the photorealists. Though unlike them, Caseau leaves some room for the imagination, with the barest hint of the artist’s hand visible in the marks. Artists are in an ongoing conversation. Each work takes cues from the past while suggesting new paths forward.