Andiron (one of pair)

Art Historical Context

This graphite drawing by Hans Korsch captures one of a pair of andirons, functional fireplace supports once essential in American homes. Created between 1935 and 1942 as part of the Index of American Design, the measures just 27.6 by 20.6 centimeters yet meticulously records an original object standing 21½ inches high. The Index, a Depression-era initiative, employed artists to produce thousands of such renderings, preserving the appearance of historic decorative arts before they disappeared. Korsch’s precise graphite technique on paperboard allowed for fine detail and tonal subtlety, translating the andiron’s metalwork—likely featuring turned or cast elements—into a clear, reproducible image. These drawings served both documentary and educational purposes, celebrating the ingenuity of American craftsmen while providing reference material for future designers and historians. Today, the piece at the National Gallery of Art offers visitors a window into 1930s efforts to safeguard cultural heritage through careful observation and skilled draftsmanship.

About the Artist

Hans Korsch · 1855–present

Hans Korsch was an American artist active during the mid-20th century, primarily around 1935 to the early 1950s, best known for his contributions to the Index of American Design, a Federal Art Project initiative under the Works Progress Administration (WPA). This ambitious New Deal program employed artists to document everyday American folk art and design objects through precise watercolor renderi...