Copper Bowl

Art Historical Context

Behold the luminous *Copper Bowl*, a meticulously rendered depiction by artist Rex F. Bush around 1938. This watercolor, graphite, and gouache work on paper captures the gleaming curves and subtle patina of an original copper vessel—11 inches in diameter and 5 inches high—with exquisite precision. Measuring 30.7 x 35.3 cm overall, it invites viewers to appreciate the tactile beauty of everyday American craftsmanship through Bush's skilled hand. Created as part of the Index of American Design (IAD), a groundbreaking Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) from 1935 to 1942, this piece exemplifies the era's commitment to documenting the nation's folk art and decorative traditions. During the Great Depression, over 200 artists produced more than 15,000 watercolor renderings like this one, preserving objects that might otherwise be lost to time. Bush's use of layered gouache for metallic sheen, delicate watercolor washes for depth, and graphite for fine details highlights the innovative mixed-media techniques that made IAD works both artistic and archival. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's collection, *Copper Bowl* celebrates the humble elegance of American metalwork, reflecting cultural pride in utilitarian beauty. It reminds us how ordinary objects embody history, bridging the gap between craft and fine art for generations of museum-goers.

About the Artist

Rex F. Bush · 1915–2002

Rex F. Bush (c. 1915–2002) was an American artist best known for his meticulous contributions to the Index of American Design, a Federal Art Project initiative under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression era. Active primarily from 1935 to 1942, Bush produced watercolor, gouache, graphite, and pen-and-ink renderings on paperboard that documented everyday American folk ...