Tin Teapot

Art Historical Context

Behold the delicate rendering of *Tin Teapot* by James McLellan created around 1938 as part of the Index of American Design. This and graphite drawing on paperboard (51 x 38.6 cm) captures humble elegance of a everyday tin teapot, transforming a utilitarian object into a study of form, shine, and subtle reflection. McLellan's precise lines and soft washes highlight the teapot's curved spout, sturdy handle, and textured surface, inviting viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship of American folk objects. The Index of American Design, a Depression-era initiative under the Works Progress Administration's Federal Art Project, commissioned artists like McLellan to document the nation's design heritage through over 18,000 detailed renderings. Produced between 1935 and 1942, these works preserved vanishing traditions—from quilts to tools—celebrating everyday artistry amid economic hardship. Watercolor and graphite proved ideal for conveying metallic sheens and vibrant details, making this medium a hallmark of the project's meticulous realism. Today, housed in the National Gallery of Art's CG-W department, *Tin Teapot* reminds us of America's inventive spirit. It underscores how ordinary items embodied cultural identity, bridging art and history for future generations. A testament to resilience and beauty in the commonplace.

About the Artist

James McLellan · 1855–present

James McLellan was an American artist active during the late 1930s, best known for his contributions to the Index of American Design (IAD), a New Deal-era Federal Art Project under the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Launched in 1935, the IAD commissioned artists across the United States to create precise watercolor renderings of everyday folk art and decorative objects, preserving a visual r...