Artwork
Door Knob
Door Knob is a glass painting. It dates from 1815 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
While designated as a door knob, it likely served a similar function as part of a larger decorative set, such as a drawer pull or a handle for a walking stick.
This small glass object, titled "Door Knob," features a carved profile portrait. Measuring approximately the size of a dime, it displays a man's side view, with his facial features and collar rendered in pale relief against a darker background. While designated as a door knob, it likely served a similar function as part of a larger decorative set, such as a drawer pull or a handle for a walking stick.
Technique & Style
The creation of this piece involved the intricate art of glass cameo carving. This demanding process required the artisan to meticulously sculpt through multiple layers of colored glass without causing fractures. The delicate nature of the material meant that precision and skill were paramount to achieve the raised portrait effect, where the lighter layer forms the figure against a contrasting darker ground.
Subject & Meaning
Unlike many cameo portraits from its era, which typically depicted well-known public figures or classical subjects, the individual portrayed on this knob remains unidentified. The man's profile, rendered with distinct features, offers no clear historical or social context for his inclusion. This anonymity contrasts with the common practice of commemorating famous personalities through such detailed miniature carvings.
Context
Housed within the American Wing, this object exemplifies the integration of artistic craftsmanship into functional, everyday items. Its presence highlights a period when utilitarian objects were often embellished with fine detail and specialized techniques. The piece can be considered alongside other works that elevate common profiles and human forms into decorative art, reflecting broader aesthetic trends of its time.
Artist & collection
