Nose Piece (For Weaning Calf)

c. 1938

John Thorsen

Associated Names
John Thorsen

Artist, American, active c. 1935

This is a painting of a spiked iron harness or bridle. The artwork depicts a circular iron ring with protruding spikes evenly distributed around its form, resembling an agricultural or medieval implement. Attached to the ring are leather straps. The stark contrast between the metal and the leather creates a striking visual element. The light brown background provides a neutral canvas that allows the detailed textures of the iron and leather to stand out. This is in the style of John Peto, known for his meticulous rendering of everyday objects and antiquities in trompe-l'oeil fashion.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor and graphite on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 35.7 x 45.8 cm (14 1/16 x 18 1/16 in.)
    Original IAD Object: 6" in diameter; 5 3/4" long spikes

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.12735


Artwork history & notes

Inscriptions

lower right in watercolor: JOHN THORSEN

Wikidata ID

Q64584381

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