Glass Vase 1935 - 1942

This glass vase was made by Richard Whitaker sometime between 1855 and 1995, with an unknown process. The drawing on paper is a beautiful example of how an artist can transform an everyday object into something special, through the very act of looking and representing. Whitaker emphasizes the vase’s material qualities. The translucence of the glass is rendered with delicate shading, and the form is carefully delineated to capture its curves and contours. The artist’s hand is evident in the subtle variations of tone and line, offering a contrast to industrial modes of production. Glassmaking is a process that combines technical skill with artistic vision. Whether this vase was free-blown, mold-blown, or made with a combination of techniques, it represents a significant amount of labor. Whitaker, in turn, draws attention to the social and cultural significance of this object, elevating it from a mere vessel to a work of art. This reminds us that the value of an object lies not only in its function but also in the story of its making.