Toy Bank: Rooster c. 1937

Curator: This delightful piece is entitled "Toy Bank: Rooster," created around 1937 by Beverly Chichester. It's rendered with colored pencils and drawing techniques. Editor: It has this darkly humorous folksy feeling—like something out of a vintage storybook, especially the way the pencil work creates textures of painted metal. Curator: Exactly. And let’s consider what’s being represented—a toy bank in the form of a rooster. The materials the original object might have been, probably tin or cast iron are interesting, right? Chichester highlights this manufactured aspect of folk art. Editor: Indeed. I’m struck by the somewhat unsettling yet captivating gaze the artist renders. The bold, dark lines accentuate the texture of the rooster’s feathers and bring such rich definition to the artwork's form. Curator: And the base, which appears to mimic wood. I see in this artwork the artist's perspective and social commentary on the everyday lives and consumer objects. The work emphasizes craftsmanship. Editor: But don't you feel it leans more towards caricature and an almost playful presentation, with those broad, simplified shapes. See how the tail feathers form a sort of closed sculptural volume and its balance with the chest. Curator: Perhaps, yet the social elements cannot be separated. Think about the object's utility: the saving habits and cultural relevance of toy banks at the time are intriguing too. Editor: That's a valid observation, but in terms of its impact, the simplified palette evokes very elemental earthy tones. Also note the balance that has been brought to this simple colour arrangement. This suggests this work focuses more on aesthetics of shape, and artistic intention more generally. Curator: Both aspects offer perspectives. By exploring these layers, we not only engage with a striking depiction but also gain some insights into the society from which it originates. Editor: Agreed, its brilliance truly comes from the seamless convergence of line, colour, and form, all interwoven within the artifice. The synthesis that generates the image’s presence in its context of artistic intent is powerful and effective.