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Bait for a Bachelor

Artist Kenneth Southworth Davies (b. 1925)

Datec. 1960

MediumOil on canvas

Dimensions27 x 15 in.

ClassificationsOil Painting

Credit LineGift of the artist

Object number2010.23LIC

DescriptionThe opening of the short story “Bait for a Bachelor” by Frank A. Clarvoe, published in the March 1, 1958 issue of “The Saturday Evening Post”, reads “Catfoot Dowl was looking for a wife.” Outfitted in a suit appropriate for the occasion, Catfoot transforms himself from a rugged logger into an “eligible bachelor”— the only hints of his occupation are his weathered face and the small bandage on his finger. Ken Davies’ illustration depicts Catfoot as he eyes his prospective match — Grace, a waitress at a local restaurant.

The perspective of the illustration “Bait for a Bachelor” seems to be from the eyes of a seated viewer who observes the scene from the bar. Davies’ interest in still life is seen in the arrangement of items on the table. Light and shadow on the napkin holder and sugar dispenser are as carefully rendered as Catfoot’s features. Grace’s sparkling gold earrings and freshly unfolded apron showcase Davies’ desire to portray even the seemingly minute details of everyday objects.

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