Shaker Newel Post

Art Historical Context

Step into the world of American folk art with *Shaker Newel Post*, a meticulous 1937 watercolor and graphite rendering by John W. Kher. This delicate work on paperboard (27.8 x 22.8 cm) captures the essence of a Shaker staircase newel post—a central support post known for its elegant simplicity. Shaker design, born from the religious communities founded in the 18th century, prized utility, clean lines, and honest craftsmanship, reflecting their motto "Hands to work, hearts to God." Created as part of the Index of American Design—a Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA) during the Great Depression—Kelleher's piece documents vanishing regional crafts. Launched in 1935, the Index employed artists to produce over 15,000 detailed renderings of everyday American objects, preserving cultural heritage amid economic hardship. Watercolor's translucent layers and graphite's precise lines allowed Kelleher to highlight the post's subtle curves and joinery, evoking the Shakers' perfectionist ethos. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's collection, this artwork bridges art and history, reminding us how functional objects embody spiritual ideals. It's a testament to America's inventive spirit and the WPA's role in supporting artists while safeguarding our design legacy.

About the Artist

John W. Kelleher · 1855–present

John W. Kelleher was an American artist active from around 1935 to 1953, best known for his contributions to the Index of American Design, a Works Progress Administration (WPA) Federal Art Project that commissioned artists to create precise watercolor renderings of everyday American folk art, crafts, and decorative objects. Little is known about Kelleher's early life or formal training, as biograp...