09-11-201209-11-2012
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2610BBoston
September 11, 2012 10:00 AMCalender
402

Large Copper and Bronze Cuff, Claire Falkenstein

Sell one like this
$5,925$5,000
Auction: Fine Jewelry - 2610BLocation: BostonDate / Time: September 11, 2012 10:00AM

Description:

Large Copper and Bronze Cuff, Claire Falkenstein, c. 1975, "The Heart Advances My Pulse", designed as a copper cuff with bronze heart, interior circ. 5 5/8, lg. 2 7/8 in., maker's mark.

Note: Claire Falkenstein (1908-1997) was an American sculptor, painter, printmaker, and jewelry designer. In the 1950s while living and working in Paris she met the likes of Jean Arp, Alberto Giacometti, and Sam Francis. Back in California, she received many commissions for various public works, and her work is included in the collections of the Addison Gallery of American Art; the Harvard Art Museums; the Indianapolis Museum of Art; the Los Angeles County Museum of Art; the Peggy Guggenheim Collection; and the Tate Britain. With original stock card from Joan Sonnabend.

Note: Property from the Estate of Joan Sonnabend, lots 260-402.
Joan Sonnabend opened her tiny gallery at the Plaza Hotel in New York in 1973. She started with a 100-piece collection of "sculptures to wear". Included in the pins, necklaces, bracelets, and rings, were works by such artists as Man Ray, Pol Bury, Picasso, Arp, and Calder. She was never a jeweler, but an art dealer. From the time she graduated Sarah Lawrence with an art degree, she always knew she wanted to open a gallery. After opening Sculpture to Wear, many artists sought her out to create items for the gallery. She became friendly with many of them, and maintained these relationships for many years. In 1973, the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, mounted a show called "Jewelry As Sculpture as Jewelry." The intent of the show was to elevate body ornament to the level of art. It showcased artists and jewelers who were especially interested in using various and unconventional materials. Joan Sonnabend's gallery at the Plaza was in part responsible for the exhibition and the creation of a market for artists' jewelry. For me personally, Joan opened my eyes to the interplay between jewelry, sculpture, adornment, and art. She always believed in the power of art and remained an art dealer until her passing.
Estimate $300-500

Keywords

Joan Sonnabend, Claire Falkenstein, Jean Arp, Sarah Lawrence, sculptor , painter, jewelry designer, Sam Francis, Paris, Alberto Giacometti, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Indianapolis Museum of Art, Addison Gallery of American Art, art dealer, Plaza Hotel, Calder, Bury, Picasso, Ray, jeweler, Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, Institute of Contemporary Art