Pa. German Plate c. 1937

This watercolor and graphite on paper, by William L. Antrim, pictures a Pa. German Plate. There's something so charming about this humble plate, and the way it's been rendered, capturing its essence through a light application of color. The design is simple, yet it speaks of a rich cultural heritage, I imagine Antrim carefully observing, trying to capture the essence of something handmade. The central motif, maybe a vase or a stylized tree, is so carefully traced, with just the right amount of wobble. I'm curious about Antrim's motivations. Was he drawn to the geometric patterns, or was it a personal connection to the plate itself? It reminds me of the way folk artists imbue everyday objects with meaning. Artists are always looking to the past, taking notes, trying things out. Maybe this plate was a reminder of simpler times. In any case, it’s a beautiful, unassuming record of something cherished.