Jug c. 1942

This watercolor of a jug was made by Samuel Philpot, who lived from 1855 to 1995. It’s interesting to consider the ways in which a utilitarian object, typically made using artisanal or industrial methods, can become the subject of fine art. Philpot has used watercolor to capture the jug's form and surface qualities. He's paid close attention to the play of light on its glazed surface, and the subtle gradations of color that give it depth and volume. The jug itself, likely made of ceramic, would have been formed either on a potter's wheel or in a mold, perhaps in great quantities. Here, it’s been transformed by the artist’s hand, through the meticulous application of pigment on paper. This kind of close observation elevates a humble object and invites us to consider the artistry inherent in everyday life. It blurs the boundaries between fine art and craft.