Glass c. 1936

J. Howard Iams created this watercolor painting titled 'Glass' in 1926. The glass, a symbol of clarity and reflection, transcends its simple form, echoing the ancient Roman concept of 'speculum,' a mirror used not just for physical reflection but as a tool for introspection. This motif appears across various eras: from Renaissance vanitas paintings reminding us of life's transience, to modern art exploring perception. Think of how a similar vessel appears in countless still life paintings, each time subtly altered to reflect the artist's unique vision and the cultural values of their time. The glass, nearly empty, suggests a deeper narrative, perhaps about absence or potential. It resonates with the psychological idea of containment—the glass holding not just liquid, but also secrets and possibilities. Consider its evolution: from a symbol of luxury in ancient times to an everyday object, its symbolic weight shifts, mirroring our own evolving relationship with material culture.