Maud Ryan's Very Sweet 1900 Bird House on Tall Pole Drawing folk art penguins In addition to the material

In addition to the material fact of their existence

but small enough to draw appreciation for the skillfulness of the carving - just right

This is just a lovely piece

and with this very satisfying spiral

the women's branch of the US Army--formed as an auxiliary unit (WAAC)  in 1942

Maud Ryan's Very Sweet 1900 Bird House on Tall Pole Drawing folk art penguins In addition to the materialDone in graphite by a very young Maud Ryan at the dawn of the 20th century, this drawing absolutely meets my definition of transcendent. Nothing more than needed, but what a lot evoked. And quite a metaphor for the moment I'd say. 8" x 6 5 8" and in good condition, with some toning and smudges as evident.