Pitcher

Art Historical Context

Welcome to the National Gallery of Art, where Giacinto Capelli's *Pitcher* (c. 1937) offers a captivating glimpse into America's design heritage. Created as part of the Index of Design—a ambitious Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression—this watercolor and graphite rendering on paperboard meticulously documents a traditional American pitcher. Launched in 1935, the Index employed artists across the nation to preserve everyday objects through detailed, colorful illustrations, safeguarding cultural artifacts from potential loss amid economic hardship. Capelli's precise technique blends soft watercolor washes for depth and luminosity with graphite lines for sharp contours, measuring 28.9 x 22.5 cm. This medium was ideal for the Index's goal: to capture the textures, forms, and craftsmanship of historical items like pottery or glassware, making them accessible for study and appreciation. Though the original pitcher's specifics aren't detailed here, such depictions highlight regional folk traditions, blending utility with artistic flair. Today, *Pitcher* stands as a testament to New Deal-era creativity, educating us on how ordinary objects embody national identity. It's a charming reminder of America's inventive spirit—perfect for pondering over a cup of tea!

About the Artist

Giacinto Capelli · 1855–present

**Giacinto Capelli** (American, active c. 1935–1942) contributed significantly to the documentation of American material culture through his precise watercolor renderings as part of the Index of American Design, a Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Little is known about his early life or formal training, which remains sparsely documented, though his expertise in wat...