Kan 1874

George Clausen made this pencil drawing of a 'Kan', or jug, around the turn of the twentieth century in England. At this time, the Arts and Crafts movement advocated for a return to traditional craftsmanship in response to industrialization. Clausen, though not strictly part of that movement, shared its concerns about the dehumanizing effects of mass production. Notice the jug’s simple, functional design. It evokes a pre-industrial era when objects were made by hand and valued for their utility and connection to the artisan. This drawing may appear simple but the image, set against a blank background, invites us to contemplate the value of everyday objects. Art historians consult archival sources, exhibition catalogues, and period writings to understand the cultural contexts in which artists like Clausen operated. Considering the social and institutional forces shaping artistic production helps us appreciate how art reflects and shapes our understanding of the world.