Martin Puryear

Acquired by the present owner directly from the artist in 1994

This work is in very good condition. The sculture is structurally sound and there are no apparent condition problems with this work. Kindly note that the upper element is Alskan Yellow Cedar and the long element is Ash wood.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Martin Puryear marries the realm of the craftsman with that of the Artist.  Having traveled extensively visiting and learning from African and Native American carpenters, Puryear exalts the value of the hand-made and the sanctity of the natural materials with which he works.  Struck by the power of Minimalist form at the Venice Biennale in 1968, Puryear began to produce a modest number of sculptures that sought to capture the power of Minimalism and primary forms.  Rejecting the industrial manufactured materials employed by Minimalists such as Donald Judd and Dan Flavin, Puryear's sculptures are informed by the method of craft and use exclusively materials from the earth.  The present work is a sublimely elegant form that simultaneously projects the Minimalist's aesthetic theory while echoing the values and skills of Craft traditions.